speleology

• Nom désignant l'étude scientifique des grottes et des systèmes souterrains, ainsi que l'activité récréative consistant à explorer les grottes.

A noun referring to the scientific study of caves and cave systems, as well as the recreational activity of exploring caves.

indénombrable

1. C1formalscientific

   The scientific study of caves and other karst features, including their formation, physical structure, biology, and history.

   spéléologie

   • Speleology involves analyzing cave formations like stalactites and stalagmites.
   • The university offers a course in speleology for geology students.
   • Researchers in speleology study the unique ecosystems found in caves.

2. Cave exploration as a hobbyB2informal

   The recreational activity of exploring caves, often involving climbing, crawling, and navigating underground passages.

   spéléologie (loisir)

   • He took up speleology as a weekend hobby with his friends.
   • Speleology requires proper equipment like helmets and headlamps.
   • The group went speleology in the limestone caves of Kentucky.