# cavernous

/ˈkævɝnəs/ (US) · /kˈævənəs/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cavernous
Updated: 2026-05-28

## Definition

extremely large and deep, like a cave. You use this to describe spaces that feel much bigger than you expected.

For teachers: extremely large, deep, or hollow in appearance. Often used to describe architectural spaces, natural formations, or even internal body cavities.

## Examples

- The old cathedral has a cavernous main hall.
- The explorers were amazed by the cavernous chambers deep within the limestone mountain.
- The library's cavernous reading room was designed to accommodate hundreds of scholars, though its sheer scale often made the atmosphere feel slightly intimidating to first-time visitors.

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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.