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n. 1. A hollow or natural passage under or into the earth, especially one with an opening to the surface. 2. A storage cellar, especially for wine. v. caved, cav·ing, caves v.tr. 1. To dig or hollow out. 2. To cause to collapse or fall in. Often used with in: The impact caved in the roof of the car. v.intr. 1. To fall in; collapse. Often used with in: The walls caved in during the earthquake. 2. To give up all opposition; yield. Often used with in: The school committee caved in to the demands of parents. 3. To explore caves. [Middle English, from Old French, from Latin cava, from neuter pl. of cavus, hollow; see keuə- in the Appendix of Indo-European roots.] |
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