Glossary of underwater diving terminology: A–C

This is a glossary of technical terms, jargon, diver slang and acronyms used in underwater diving.

Underwater diving can be described as a human activity – intentional, purposive, conscious and subjectively meaningful sequence of actions.

Underwater diving is practiced as part of an occupation, or for recreation, where the practitioner submerges below the surface of the water or other liquid for a period which may range between seconds to the order of a day at a time, either exposed to the ambient pressure or isolated by a pressure resistant suit, to interact with the underwater environment for pleasure, competitive sport, or as a means to reach a work site for profit, as a public service, or in the pursuit of knowledge, and may use no equipment at all, or a wide range of equipment which may include breathing apparatus, environmental protective clothing, aids to vision, communication, propulsion, maneuverability, buoyancy and safety equipment, and tools for the task at hand.

Many of the terms are in general use by English speaking divers from many parts of the world, both amateur and professional, and using any of the modes of diving.

Main article: Australian Diver Accreditation SchemeAlso: "ACD"See: Diving regulator#Automatic closure deviceSee: Automatic Diluent ValveMain article: Autonomous diverSee: Scuba gas planning#Available gasContents: Top