Excavator Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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excavator
[หษkskษหveษชtษr ]
Definitions
construction machinery
An excavator is a large machine that is used for digging and moving large amounts of earth, rock, or other materials. It typically has a bucket, boom, and cab mounted on a rotating platform.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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excavator |
Used in construction or mining to describe heavy and large machinery for digging and moving large amounts of earth.
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digger |
A general term that can refer to any machine or person that digs. It's less formal and often used colloquially.
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backhoe |
Refers to a piece of equipment that has a blade on the front and a smaller, hinged arm and bucket on the back, often used for smaller construction tasks and in urban areas.
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shovel |
A hand tool used by individuals for digging or transferring materials like soil, gravel, or snow. It is also used metaphorically to indicate manual or smaller-scale operations.
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Examples of usage
- The excavator dug a deep hole for the foundation of the building.
- The excavator was used to clear the debris after the landslide.
archaeology
In archaeology, an excavator is a person who systematically uncovers and removes artifacts and structures from the ground in order to study and learn about past civilizations.
Synonyms
archaeologist, digger, fieldworker.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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excavator |
This term is often used to describe a heavy machinery used in construction and mining to dig and move large amounts of earth. It is a common piece of equipment in worksites.
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archaeologist |
An archaeologist is a professional who studies human history and prehistory through the excavation of sites and the analysis of artifacts and other physical remains. This term is mainly used in academic and research contexts.
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digger |
Commonly refers to a person or a tool/machine used for digging. While it can be used informally for a person who digs for a living, it can also be a simple term for an implement like a shovel or machinery.
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fieldworker |
This term is often used to describe individuals who perform work in the field, especially in agriculture, social research, or scientific studies. It implies hands-on work outside of an office environment.
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Examples of usage
- The excavator carefully brushed away the dirt to reveal the ancient pottery.
- The lead excavator discovered a hidden chamber beneath the ruins.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
History
- The first powered excavators were introduced in the early 20th century, revolutionizing construction and mining.
- Before machines, manual tools like shovels and picks were used for excavation, making work much slower.
- The design of excavators has evolved significantly, incorporating hydraulics and advanced mechanics for efficiency.
Science and Technology
- Modern excavators are equipped with technology like GPS and sensors, allowing for precise digging and minimizing errors.
- Hydraulic systems in excavators enable them to lift heavier loads with less effort, enhancing their usefulness.
- Excavators come in various types, including mini-excavators for small jobs and large excavators for heavy-duty tasks.
Cultural Impact
- Excavators frequently appear in children's toys, games, and books, illustrating their importance in construction.
- They're often featured in documentaries about archaeology, showcasing their role in discovering ancient artifacts.
- In popular culture, excavators symbolize progress and development, being central to many construction-related films and shows.
Environmental Factors
- Excavation processes can impact the environment, requiring careful planning to reduce effects on surrounding ecosystems.
- Innovative excavators are being designed to minimize fuel consumption and emissions, promoting eco-friendly construction.
- Soil erosion can occur during excavation if proper measures like silt fences or sediment traps arenโt used.
Origin of 'excavator'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'excavator' comes from the Latin verb 'excavare', meaning 'to hollow out' or 'to dig out'.
- In English, it first appeared in the 19th century, reflecting the growth of mechanized construction.
- The term also relates to excavation, which refers to the process of digging out earth.
The word 'excavator' originated in the early 20th century from the Latin word 'excavare', which means 'to dig out'. Initially, it was used to refer to a person who digs or to the action of digging. Over time, the term evolved to describe the large machine used for excavation in construction and archaeology.
See also: excavating, excavation.
Word Frequency Rank
At rank #25,194, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.
- ...
- 25191 shrugging
- 25192 marshalling
- 25193 screeched
- 25194 excavator
- 25195 pagination
- 25196 compacting
- 25197 retold
- ...