Excavating: meaning, definitions and examples

Used mainly in construction and archaeology when removing earth to create something new or to uncover old structures.

• The construction crew is excavating the site for the new building
• Archaeologists are excavating the ancient ruins

Commonly used in everyday language for any activity that involves breaking and removing earth, often with a focus on practical or manual tasks.

• He spent the afternoon digging a hole for the new tree
• The dog was digging in the backyard

Often used when discovering something hidden, lost, or buried, with an emphasis on the finding or revealing aspect.

• The researchers are unearthing clues about prehistoric life
• She unearthed an old family photo album in the attic

Typically used in more formal or specific contexts, especially when talking about the act of removing a buried body or object. Often has a negative or somber connotation.

• The authorities obtained permission to disinter the buried remains for further investigation
• The historian disinterred old manuscripts from the archives

Used in the context of large-scale construction or archaeological work where significant amounts of earth and materials are being removed.

• They are excavating the site to build a new shopping mall.
• Archaeologists have been excavating this ancient city for years.

Often used in everyday activities or smaller scale operations that involve breaking and moving earth.

• The kids are digging a hole in the backyard.
• I have been digging in the garden all morning.

Refers specifically to the process of removing sediment and debris from the bottom of lakes, rivers, harbors, or other water bodies.

• They are dredging the river to improve navigation.
• The harbor needs dredging to allow larger ships to dock.

Used when referring to digging or moving small amounts of earth, snow, or other materials using a shovel.

• After the heavy snowfall, we spent hours shoveling the driveway.
• He is shoveling sand into the wheelbarrow.