Edit page | Page history | Printable version

shovel

An implement consisting of a broad scoop, or more or less hollow blade, with a handle, used for lifting and throwing earth, coal, grain, or other loose substances. Shovel hat, a broad-brimmed hat, turned up at the sides, and projecting in front like a shovel, worn by some clergy of the english Church.

(Science: zoology) Shovelspur, a flat, horny process on the tarsus of some toads, used in burrowing. Steam shovel, a machine with a scoop or scoops, operated by a steam engine, for excavating earth, as in making railway cuttings.

Origin: OE. Shovele, schovele, AS. Scoft, sceoft; akin to D. Schoffel, G. Schaufel, OHG. Scvala, Dan. Skovl, Sw. Skofvel, skyffel, and to E. Shove. See Shove.