Boxwork

/ˈbɑks.wɜːrk/ noun

Definition

Geological formations in caves featuring a honeycomb-like network of ridges and thin dividing walls; also refers to box-like structural joinery in construction.

Etymology

Compound of 'box' (the geometric form) and 'work' (from Old English 'weorc,' labor or structure), describing both cave formations and construction techniques.

Kelly Says

Boxwork cave formations are so rare and fragile that they're protected in Jewel Cave National Monument—if you touch the delicate ridges, you can damage formations that took 20+ million years to form.

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