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Shovelling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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shovelling

[ˈʃʌv(ə)lɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

physical activity

Shovelling refers to the act of using a shovel to move, lift, or transfer material such as snow, dirt, or gravel. This action requires physical strength and is often performed in various contexts including construction sites, gardening, or during winter maintenance. The technique involves scooping up material with the shovel and then lifting or throwing it to a different location. Shovelling can also imply a sense of urgency or effort, especially in situations like clearing snow quickly after a storm.

Synonyms

digging, lifting, scooping.

Examples of usage

  • I spent the afternoon shovelling snow off the driveway.
  • The workers are shovelling dirt to prepare for the foundation.
  • She enjoys shovelling mulch in her garden.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • Shovelling snow is a cherished winter activity in many northern countries, often leading to community bonding.
  • In certain cultures, shovelling is seen as a necessary chore that can be linked to rituals of cleanliness and preparation.
  • In literature, shovelling can symbolize hard work and perseverance, often representing the struggle against nature.

Health and Safety

  • Proper technique when shovelling helps prevent injuries; bending your knees instead of your back is key.
  • Shovelling snow is a significant cause of strain-related injuries in winter months, increasing awareness of safety.
  • Taking breaks and staying hydrated while shovelling can improve both performance and safety.

Environmental Impact

  • Shovelling can impact soil health; overly aggressive shovelling can compact soil and damage plant roots.
  • Using shovels to clear invasive plant species is a method employed in ecological restoration projects.
  • In urban areas, shovelling helps manage stormwater runoff by creating space for proper drainage.

Tool Evolution

  • Modern shovels are made from materials designed for durability, like reinforced steel or lightweight polymers.
  • Ergonomic designs in shovels reduce strain on the user, which has revolutionized how people approach manual labor.
  • The shovel has inspired various mechanical devices, such as snow blowers, for efficiency in heavy-duty jobs.

Origin of 'shovelling'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'shovel' comes from the Old English 'scolfa,' which means to dig or scrape.
  • The practice of using a shovel can be traced back thousands of years, even to ancient Egyptians for construction.
  • Different types of shovels have evolved across cultures, showing how important this tool is for various tasks.

The word 'shovel' has its roots in Old English, derived from the word 'sceofl', which means a spade or a tool for digging. The word has evolved over centuries, appearing in various forms across different Germanic languages. In Middle English, it appeared as 'shovelle'. The adoption of the term 'shovelling' signifies the action of using the shovel and emphasizes the ongoing nature of the task. Over time, shovels have become not only practical tools but also cultural symbols of labor and hard work, representing the physical effort involved in tasks ranging from construction to winter maintenance. The activity of shovelling has been integral to human development, especially with agricultural practices and urban planning, underscoring humanity's interaction with the environment.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,662 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.