CultureJuly 20, 2026
spelunker
/spɪˈlʌŋkər/
Definition
A person who explores caves, especially as a hobby or sport.
Etymology
The term is derived from the Latin 'spelunca' (cave) and the suffix '-er' denoting an agent. It entered American English in the mid-20th century, popularized by groups interested in the systematic exploration of cave systems.
In the news
The word appears in the headline 'Guizhou offers spelunkers an inside track,' which highlights the region as a popular destination for cave exploration enthusiasts. It illustrates how Guizhou uses its natural geography to attract adventure tourism.
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Read the full article ↗China Daily