Meaning & Definition of word "Shovel"
to
Shovel
/ˈʃʌv.əl/
noun:
- 1. A tool with a broad blade and typically a handle, used for digging, lifting, and carrying loose material.
- Example: He used a shovel to dig a hole for the new tree.
- 2. An implement resembling a spade but with a broad blade for lifting and moving material.
- Example: The workers grabbed their shovels and got to work on the driveway.
- 3. The blade or scoop of a machine, such as a bulldozer or front-end loader.
- Example: The shovel of the excavator dug deep into the ground.
verb:
- 1. To move (earth, snow, or other material) with a shovel.
- Example: They began to shovel snow from the driveway early in the morning.
- 2. To put or shove something into a place in a hurried or careless manner.
- Example: She shoveled the clothes into the suitcase for the trip.
Etymology
Middle English 'shovelle', from Old English 'scofl' (shovel, spade).
Common Phrases and Expressions
shovel snow:
To use a shovel to remove snow from an area.
shovel something down:
To eat something quickly and greedily.
Related Words
spade:
A tool similar to a shovel but with a narrower blade.
scoop:
A tool or device used to dig or lift material.
Slang Meanings of shovel
Meaning: To shovel food
Example Sentence: He was shoveling food into his mouth at the buffet.
Meaning: Shovel money
Example Sentence: The startup is shoveling money into advertising to gain market share.