# cavern

/ˈkævɝn/ (US) · /kˈævən/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cavern
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

a very large cave, often found deep underground. It feels much bigger and more impressive than a normal cave.

For teachers: a large cave or a chamber in a cave, typically formed by the underground erosion of rock. Often implies a sense of vastness or depth compared to a standard cave.

## Examples

- The hikers explored the dark cavern with their flashlights.
- Water dripping from the ceiling of the cavern has created massive limestone pillars over thousands of years.
- As the explorers descended deeper into the limestone system, they emerged into a vast cavern where the echoes of their voices seemed to travel for miles.

## Usage notes

- Often used metaphorically to describe any large, dark, or hollow space.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.