Mattock: meaning, definitions and examples

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mattock

 

[ ˈmatɒk ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

tool for digging

A mattock is a hand tool used for digging, breaking up soil, and loosening compacted ground. It consists of a long handle with a broad, rectangular blade on one side and a pointed head on the other. The blade is effective for cutting through roots and tough soil, while the pointed end can penetrate harder surfaces. Mattocks are commonly used in gardening and landscaping, as well as in agricultural practices.

Synonyms

digging tool, hoe, pickaxe

Examples of usage

  • The gardener used a mattock to break up the hard ground.
  • To create the new flowerbed, she needed a mattock for digging.
  • He relied on his trusty mattock to clear the rocky terrain.
  • With the mattock in hand, he prepared the soil for planting.

Translations

Translations of the word "mattock" in other languages:

🇵🇹 picareta

🇮🇳 खुदाई की कुदाल

🇩🇪 Schaufel

🇮🇩 palu tanah

🇺🇦 мотика

🇵🇱 motyka

🇯🇵 マトック

🇫🇷 bêche

🇪🇸 azadón

🇹🇷 mattock

🇰🇷 괭이

🇸🇦 معول

🇨🇿 motyka

🇸🇰 motyka

🇨🇳 铁锹

🇸🇮 motika

🇮🇸 kafli

🇰🇿 балта

🇬🇪 მოყრა

🇦🇿 şumluq

🇲🇽 machete

Word origin

The word 'mattock' originates from the late Middle English period, likely derived from the Old French word 'matelot,' which means a small hammer or mallet. This term itself may trace back to the Proto-Germanic *matōhō, meaning 'to hit' or 'to strike.' Historically, mattocks have been used since ancient times for agricultural purposes and land cultivation. They were essential tools for farmers and laborers, especially in regions with rocky or dense soil. Over the centuries, the design of the mattock has evolved, but its basic function as a versatile digging tool has remained consistent. Today, it is still widely used in gardening, landscaping, and construction, highlighting its enduring utility and significance in agricultural processes.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,550 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.