Adits are horizontal passages that provide access to underground mining operations. There are a number of synonyms that can be used to describe these types of entryways. For example, adits can also be referred to as tunnels, drifts, levels, or drives. These words all describe the same type of underground passage, and can be used interchangeably depending on the context of the conversation. Other synonyms for adits include galleries, headings, inclines, and workings. These terms are often used by mining professionals and engineers to describe the various components of a mining operation and to communicate effectively with each other.