n. The business or work of a miner: also used attributively: as, a mining engineer; mining tools.n. The area of mining-ground held under federal or State law by one claimant or association by virtue of one location and entry. In consequence of the peculiar right to follow a vein of ore beyond the line of the boundary upon the surface, it may be more correctly, though still somewhat vaguely, defined as a tract of mineral land, the owner of which is entitled to the surface rights and all subjacent minerals, together with certain lateral rights of mining beyond the boundary, and subject to the similar lateral rights of adjoining owners. When two veins connect or cross, priority of title generally gives a preference. Coal-land claims may be entered for not exceeding 160 acres to each individual, or 320 acres to each association. As to placer-mining claims, see placer-claim, under placer.Of burrowing habits: as, the rabbit is a mining animal.Insidious; working by underhand means.