Backhoe: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used to refer to the specific machine that has a digging bucket on the end of a two-part articulated arm. Often used in construction and agricultural settings.

• The backhoe operator carefully dug around the utility lines.
• They rented a backhoe to dig the foundation for the new house.

A broad term used to describe heavy construction equipment consisting of a boom, dipper (or stick), bucket, and cab on a rotating platform known as the 'house'. Generally used for digging and moving materials.

• The excavator made quick work of the trench for the new pipeline.
• Operators must be trained to handle excavators safely on construction sites.

A more general term that can be used to describe any machine or person that digs. Frequently used in everyday language or in informal contexts.

• The kids were fascinated by the digger at the construction site.
• We used a digger to break the ground for our new garden.

Refers to any large machine designed to move large quantities of earth. Commonly used in the context of major construction projects, such as road building or preparing large sites.

• The earthmover cleared the area in a matter of hours.
• On massive construction sites, earthmovers are essential for moving soil and debris.