Cavern: meaning, definitions and examples

A very large cave or a series of interconnected caves, suggesting a more impressive or extensive natural formation.

• The spelunkers were awed by the cavern's vastness.
• They descended into the dark cavern, their lights barely illuminating the walls.

A natural, large underground space or hollow, often explored by adventurers. It is a general term and can be used in most situations where an underground space is referenced.

• The explorers found an ancient cave filled with stalactites.
• They sought shelter in a cave during the storm.

A small, picturesque cave or an artificial structure designed to resemble a cave, often associated with gardens, religious shrines, or decorative environments.

• The garden features a charming grotto with a fountain inside.
• The pilgrims visited the sacred grotto to offer their prayers.

A room or enclosed space, often within a cave and specifically referring to a smaller part of the entire cave system. Can be used in historical or architectural contexts as well.

• The ancient tomb had a secret chamber filled with treasures.
• They stumbled upon an underwater chamber deep inside the cave.

A large, naturally occurring cave, usually found underground. Suitable for describing expansive and often visually stunning spaces formed by natural processes.

• The explorers discovered an enormous cavern filled with stalactites.
• The sound of dripping water echoed through the vast cavern.

An underground prison or place of confinement, often found in castles. It has a negative connotation and is typically associated with dark, grim environments.

• The knight was thrown into the dungeon as punishment.
• The dungeon was cold, damp, and filled with eerie silence.

A room or enclosed space situated below the surface of the ground. It can be used to describe both natural and man-made spaces.

• The archaeologists uncovered an underground chamber with ancient artifacts.
• The underground chamber served as a hidden meeting place during the war.

A secret or hidden underground hideout or stronghold, often used in fiction. This term suggests a mysterious or dangerous place, usually associated with villains or hidden plots.

• The villain retreated to his subterranean lair.
• Legends spoke of a subterranean lair beneath the old mansion, filled with treasures.