Bulldozer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bulldozer

[ˈbʊlˌdoʊzər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

construction vehicle

A bulldozer is a large and powerful tractor equipped with a substantial metal plate (known as a blade) used to push large quantities of soil, sand, rubble, or other such material during construction or demolition work. Bulldozers are commonly used in the construction industry for tasks such as clearing land, grading terrain, and leveling surfaces.

Synonyms

crawler, dozer, earthmover.

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Word Description / Examples
bulldozer

Typically used to describe a large, powerful machine used to move earth or rubble. It can also be used figuratively to describe a person who pushes through obstacles forcefully.

  • The construction site was busy with the noise of a bulldozer clearing the land.
  • She's a real bulldozer in meetings, always pushing her ideas through.
dozer

A shorter, more casual term for a bulldozer. Used in informal conversation or writing.

  • Bring the dozer over here to level the ground.
  • The dozer operator skillfully cleared the debris.
crawler

This word is used mainly for a type of bulldozer with tracks instead of wheels, which helps it move over rough terrain. It is more technical and less common in everyday language.

  • The crawler can easily move through the muddy fields.
  • Engineers recommended using a crawler for the unstable ground.
earthmover

A general term for various types of heavy machinery that move large amounts of earth, including bulldozers and excavators. It's used broadly in construction and mining contexts.

  • The earthmover was essential for the large-scale excavation project.
  • Several earthmovers were on site to prepare the new road.

Examples of usage

  • The bulldozer cleared the site for the new building.
  • The construction crew used a bulldozer to flatten the ground before laying the foundation.
  • The bulldozer pushed aside the debris with ease.

Translations

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Origin of 'bulldozer'

The term 'bulldozer' originated in the early 20th century, combining 'bull' (meaning large or powerful) and 'dozer' (a shortening of 'bulldozer') to describe the heavy-duty earth-moving machine. The design of the modern bulldozer has evolved over time to become an essential tool in construction and excavation projects.


See also: bull, bullion, bulls, bullseye.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,508, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.