Meaning & Definition of word "Excavation"

Excavation

/ˌɛks.kəˈveɪ.ʃən/

noun:

  • 1. The process of digging out and removing earth, rock, or other materials from a site.
    • Example: The excavation of the ancient ruins revealed many artifacts.
  • 2. A site from which material has been excavated.
    • Example: The excavation at the construction site was larger than expected.
  • 3. A hole made by excavating.
    • Example: They found a large excavation in the ground that was used for storage.

Etymology

Late Latin excavatio, from excavare to hollow out.

Common Phrases and Expressions

excavation site:

A specific location where excavation is being carried out.

archaeological excavation:

The systematic uncovering of ancient artifacts by digging.

excavation plan:

A detailed strategy for conducting an excavation, often involving excavation methods.

Related Words

excavate:

To dig out and remove material from a particular area.

excavator:

A machine used for digging or moving large quantities of earth.

earthwork:

A construction project that involves moving or manipulating soil or rock.

Slang Meanings of excavation

Meaning: Digging deep into something.

Example Sentence: That project was an excavation into the core issues of the problem.

Meaning: To uncover hidden truths or secrets.

Example Sentence: They did some serious excavation on the company's finances.