Caving vs. Spelunking — What's the Difference?

Caving – also known as spelunking in the United States and Canada and potholing in the United Kingdom and Ireland – is the recreational pastime of exploring wild cave systems (as distinguished from show caves). In contrast, speleology is the scientific study of caves and the cave environment.The challenges involved in caving vary according to the cave being visited; in addition to the total absence of light beyond the entrance, negotiating pitches, squeezes, and water hazards can be difficult.

One who explores caves chiefly as a hobby; a caver.

A hollow or natural passage under or into the earth, especially one with an opening to the surface.

The practice or hobby of exploring underground caverns.

A storage cellar, especially for wine.

Present participle of spelunk

To dig or hollow out.

To cause to collapse or fall in. Often used with in

To fall in; collapse. Often used with in

To give up all opposition; yield. Often used with in

To explore caves.

The recreational sport of exploring caves.

An act of collapsing or caving in.

Present participle of cave