denivelation

English

Etymology

French dénivellation.

Noun

denivelation (plural denivelations)

1. (caving) the difference in level (depth) between two parts of a cave system, usually the highest and lowest known point. depth is the distance between the cave entrance and the lowest known point reached. denivelation is less than or equal to depth
2. (hiking, cycling, trail running) the difference in level between the highest and lowest part of the track, regardless of starting or ending point