Cavern
Noun
Definition: A large cave or a large, dark, and enclosed space.
Synonyms: Cave, Grotto, Hollow
Antonyms: Clearing, Opening, Expanse
Examples:
- We explored the dark corners of the ancient cavern.
- The bats roosted in the deep caverns of the mountain.
Mnemonics:
- Imagine exploring a mysterious and vast cavern full of stalactites and stalagmites.
Etymology:
Origin:
Middle English from Old French "caverne" and Latin "caverna", from cavus meaning "hollow".
Historical Usage:The word has been used since Middle English and has maintained its meaning throughout history.
Related Idioms:
Idiom:
"Plato's cave"
Explanation:Refers to an allegorical story by Plato about people being trapped in a cave, seeing only shadows of reality.
Misconceptions:
Misconception:
Confusing "cavern" with "cave".
Explanation:While "cavern" refers to a specific type of large cave or enclosed space, "cave" can refer to any natural underground hollow or opening.