spelunker

Beginner ⚽ Sports / Fitness

Definition

A person who explores caves as a hobby or sport, descending into underground caverns and navigating their passages. Also called a caver or potholer.

Example Usage

The experienced spelunker descended into the cave system with specialized equipment and mapping tools.

Origin

From Latin 'spelunca' (cave), popularized in modern English in the mid-20th century to describe recreational cave explorers.

Fun Fact

Spelunking has evolved into a serious scientific and recreational pursuit, with expeditions discovering new cave systems and underground ecosystems.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

Related Terms

Translate This Term

See “spelunker” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.

Try the Translator