Dig: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used in casual conversation to describe making a hole in the ground with hands, tools, or machinery. It can also refer to searching for something hard to find.

• The children like to dig in the sandbox.
• They had to dig through old files to find the documents.

Used in formal or technical contexts, especially related to archaeology or construction, to describe carefully digging out and removing earth to find something buried or to prepare a site.

• Archaeologists excavate ancient ruins to uncover historical artifacts.
• They need to excavate the site before building the foundation.

Often used to describe animals creating a small, snug hole or tunnel in the ground to live in. It can also be used metaphorically to describe hiding or settling into a cozy place.

• Rabbits burrow into the ground to create their homes.
• She burrowed under the blankets to stay warm.

Typically used to describe lifting or taking out a small amount of something with a curved or hollow tool or hand. Can be used in both casual and professional contexts.

• She used a spoon to scoop ice cream into a bowl.
• The machine can scoop up hundreds of pounds of soil at a time.

Typically used when referring to physically breaking or removing soil or other materials to create a hole or space. It can also be used metaphorically when searching for information persistently.

• They had to dig a hole to plant the tree.
• He started to dig into her past to uncover the secret.

Best used when referring to looking at something carefully and in detail, typically to learn more about it or to verify its correctness.

• The doctor will examine the patient thoroughly.
• You should examine the terms and conditions before signing the contract.

Appropriate when discussing the action of traveling through an unfamiliar area to learn about it or investigating a topic in depth.

• We plan to explore the hidden valleys of the region.
• The report aims to explore the causes of climate change.

Often used when referring to investigating something deeply or thoroughly, especially in a way that involves questioning or examining in a very detailed, precise, or intrusive manner. This word can carry a negative connotation when implying invasive or overly inquisitive behavior.

• The scientists will probe the ocean depths.
• Journalists began to probe into the politician's affairs.

This word commonly refers to the action of breaking or moving earth, sand, snow, or other material using a tool, machine, or hands. It can also be used informally to mean 'to like' or 'to understand'.

• They're going to dig a hole for the new plant.
• I really dig that new song.

This word is used to describe a feeling of eager interest or excitement toward a particular activity or subject. It is often associated with a positive and energetic attitude.

• She showed great enthusiasm for the project.
• His enthusiasm for learning is contagious.

This word describes a keen enjoyment or interest in something. It can also refer to a lively quality that increases one's enjoyment of life, often implying a vigorous and spirited enthusiasm.

• He tackled the project with zest.
• Her zest for life is truly inspiring.

This word typically refers to a strong and barely controllable emotion. It can denote intense enthusiasm or fondness for something, and it is often used in contexts related to love or strong interest.

• Her passion for art is evident in her work.
• They felt a deep passion for each other.