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Spadeful Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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spadeful

[ˈspeɪd.fəl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

measure or quantity

A spadeful is a unit of measurement referring to the amount that can be scooped up by a spade. It is often used in gardening or construction contexts to measure soil, sand, or similar materials. Although informal, this measurement is especially useful when discussing volumes needed for tasks like planting or landscaping. The actual volume of a spadeful can vary depending on the size of the spade and the material involved.

Synonyms

load, scoop, shovelful.

Examples of usage

  • I need a spadeful of soil for the new flower bed.
  • He filled the wheelbarrow with three spadefuls of gravel.
  • Add a spadeful of compost to the mixture.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural References

  • In gardening, a spadeful of compost is often crucial for enriching soil quality.
  • In some cultures, digging with a spade is seen as a metaphor for hard work and persistence.
  • There are even festivals celebrating traditional farming tools, emphasizing the spade's cultural significance.

Literature

  • In poetry, referencing a spadeful can evoke imagery of labor and care for the earth.
  • Famous authors, like John Steinbeck, often highlighted the use of spades in stories about farming and connection to nature.
  • The spadeful also emerges in literary discussions of manual labor versus industrial work.

Science

  • A spadeful of soil can contain millions of organisms, demonstrating the importance of biodiversity.
  • Scientists studying soil layers often refer to 'spadefuls' when sampling to analyze ecological health.
  • Understanding how much a spadeful weighs can help gardeners measure the right amount of nutrients they add to their gardens.

Psychology

  • The act of digging with a spade can evoke feelings of contentment and connection to the earth, promoting mental well-being.
  • Research suggests gardening activities, which include using a spade, can reduce stress and anxiety.
  • Engaging with soil through spadefuls can foster a sense of mindfulness and presence.

Origin of 'spadeful'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'spade' originates from the Old English 'spadu', which means a digging tool.
  • The suffix 'ful' means 'full of', so combining them gives a sense of volume associated with the tool.
  • This term became widely used in English gardening and farming contexts during the 19th century.

The term 'spadeful' is derived from the word 'spade,' which has its origins in the Old English word 'spadu,' meaning a digging tool. The suffix '-ful' indicates a quantity or amount that fills a container. The combination of these two elements suggests a measure corresponding to what can be held or moved with a spade. Historically, spades have been essential tools in agriculture and gardening, and the need for precise language to describe quantities of soil or other materials led to the creation of terms like 'spadeful.' The usage of this word has been consistent in English literature since at least the 19th century, reflecting the importance of gardening and land cultivation in English-speaking cultures.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,663, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.