Shoveled - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

physical action

Shoveled is the past tense of the verb 'shovel'. It refers to the act of moving or lifting material, typically soil, snow, or other debris, using a shovel. This action is often associated with clearing pathways, digging, or transporting materials from one location to another. It implies a vigorous effort and is commonly used in contexts such as snow removal during winter or landscaping work.

Synonyms

cleared, lifted, removed.

Examples of usage

He shoveled the driveway after the snowstorm.
They shoveled dirt into the wheelbarrow.
She shoveled the sand to build a sandcastle.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

In many cultures, shoveling snow is a rite of winter, symbolizing community and togetherness.
Traditionally, some societies have celebrations upon the first snowfall, where communal shoveling is accompanied by music and food.
In folk tales, characters often shovel their way out of trouble, representing hard work leading to resolution.

Science

The physics of shoveling involves leverage, where the proper angle can reduce strain and increase efficiency.
Research shows that shoveling heavy snow can increase the risk of heart attacks, highlighting the importance of safety during winter.
The act of shoveling snow also affects local ecosystems by altering land drainage patterns and soil composition.

Literature

Shoveling has appeared in various literary works as a metaphor for hard work and perseverance.
In some children's books, characters shovel snow, often illustrating themes of teamwork and friendship.
Classic poetry sometimes uses the imagery of shovels to evoke feelings of nostalgia or the passage of time through seasons.

Origin of 'shoveled'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Old English 'sceofl,' meaning a tool for digging.
In Middle English, it evolved to 'shovelen', reflecting its use in agriculture and construction.
The suffix '-ed' indicates the action has been completed, transforming a verb into a past tense.

The word 'shovel' originates from the Old English 'sceofol', which means 'to throw' or 'to push'. This is further derived from the Proto-Germanic 'skufwō', which is related to the concept of moving material. The transition to the modern English term included various historical spellings and uses in different Germanic languages. The past tense form 'shoveled' follows regular English verb conjugation rules. Over time, shovels have evolved in design and function, becoming essential tools in construction, agriculture, and winter maintenance tasks. The verb 'to shovel' captures the essence of this action, highlighting the effort and technique involved in using such a fundamental tool.

Shoveled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations