min·ing (mī′nĭng) n. 1. The process or business of extracting ore or minerals from the ground. 2. a. The process of digging under an enemy emplacement or fortification to destroy it by explosives, cause it to collapse, or gain access to it for an attack. b. The process of laying explosive mines. mining (ˈmaɪnɪŋ) n 1. (Mining & Quarrying) the ...