Snowplow Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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snowplow
[ˈsnoʊˌplaʊ ]
Definition
vehicle type
A snowplow is a specialized vehicle designed to remove snow and ice from roadways, parking lots, and other surfaces. Snowplows are often fitted with a blade that can be raised, lowered, or angled to effectively clear snow. They are commonly used during winter storms to ensure safe driving conditions. Some snowplows are mounted on trucks or tractors, while others operate independently. Their operation is crucial in maintaining clear paths for pedestrians and vehicles during harsh weather.
Synonyms
road grader, snow blower.
Examples of usage
- The city dispatched snowplows to clear the streets after the heavy snowfall.
- Snowplows worked throughout the night to keep the highways safe.
- We watched the snowplow as it cleared the driveway.
- The local government invested in new snowplows for better winter maintenance.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
History
- The first motorized snowplow was invented in 1920 by a man named A.S. Dunsmuir in the United States.
- Before motorized snowplows, horses and human labor were used to clear snow manually from roads.
Technology
- Modern snowplows often come equipped with advanced technology, including GPS systems and automated controls to improve efficiency.
- Some urban snowplows are connected to city traffic systems, allowing them to optimize routes for clearing snow.
Pop Culture
- Snowplows have appeared in various films and TV shows, often symbolizing winter's challenges and the heroic effort to overcome them.
- In various video games, snowplows are featured as vehicles that can clear paths or create obstacles for players.
Science
- Snowplows not only clear roads but also help control ice formation, which can be crucial for road safety in cold climates.
- The effectiveness of a snowplow often depends on the type of snow—light, fluffy snow is easier to plow than heavy, wet snow.
Origin of 'snowplow'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'snowplow' combines 'snow' and 'plow', where 'plow' comes from old English words meaning to clear or till soil.
- The use of plowing snow dates back to ancient civilizations, but modern snowplow designs began in the 19th century.
The term 'snowplow' originates from the combination of 'snow' and 'plow,' reflecting its primary function of plowing through snow. 'Snow' comes from Old English 'snāw,' which has roots in Proto-Germanic and Proto-Indo-European languages, indicating its long-standing presence in the vernacular associated with winter weather. The 'plow' aspect comes from the Old English 'plōg,' denoting a tool or implement used for tilling land, which evolved into the wider use of the term for clearing materials. The first mechanical snowplows were introduced in the 19th century, evolving from traditional hand-operated shovels to vehicles that could manage larger areas and thicker snow. Over time, snowplows have become essential for urban infrastructure, particularly in regions that experience heavy snowfall, and have continually adapted with advancements in technology and design.