noun
speleology
spee-lee-AH-luh-jee
Speleology (noun) means the scientific study of caves. Example: “She studied speleology to learn how caves form.”
noun
1
The scientific study of caves.
"She studied speleology to learn how caves form."
"The university offers a course in speleology."
"His research in speleology took him deep underground."
2
Exploring caves as a hobby or sport.
"He took up speleology as a weekend hobby."
"The club organizes speleology trips for beginners."
"Speleology requires a helmet and a reliable light."
How to use speleology
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe study, or the sport, of caves.
When to use it
It is a formal, somewhat technical word, and caving is the everyday term.
Memory tip
Speleology is the formal term; caving and potholing are the everyday words.
Trace the full origin ↓
Common pairings
study speleology
speleology club
speleology expedition
speleology society
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She studied _____ to learn how caves form.
Etymology
The word comes from the French spéléologie, which Émile Rivière coined in 1890. It combines speleo- with the ending -logy.
Synonyms
View more →
caving
potholing
Related words
Rhymes for speleology
urology
apology
zoology
biology
ecology
analogy
etiology
pedagogy
mycology
virology
sexology
cytology
See all rhymes for speleology →
Frequently asked questions
What does speleology mean?
Speleology is the scientific study of caves. It also refers to the activity of exploring them.
What is the difference between speleology and caving?
Speleology can mean the scientific study of caves, while caving usually means exploring them for recreation. The word speleology can also cover the recreational activity.
How do you pronounce speleology?
It is commonly pronounced spee-lee-AH-luh-jee, with the stress on the third syllable.
What is the meaning of speleology?
"speleology" (noun) means the scientific study of caves.
