What does shovel mean?
A shovel is a tool with a long handle and broad blade used to dig, lift, and move loose materials such as soil, sand, gravel, coal, and snow. As a verb, "shovel" describes using the tool, as in shoveling snow from a path, and can also mean throwing something forcefully. In figurative contexts, it can refer to moving a large quantity of money, usually in the phrase "shovel money into" a project or campaign. Another figurative use, "shoveling blame," suggests assigning responsibility to someone in bulk rather than carefully. The word is common in both British and American English and can refer to a general-purpose tool, although a spade is typically more suitable for precise digging.
A long-handled tool with a broad blade used for digging and moving loose materials such as soil, sand, gravel, or snow.
"He used a shovel to clear the snow from the steps."
The word can also refer informally to a large quantity of something, especially money or food, as in "a shovel of cash."
To dig, clear, or move material with a shovel; to throw something forcefully; or figuratively, to provide money or support enthusiastically.
"They shoveled snow all morning."
In the financial and political senses, "shovel" is often figurative and may suggest large or indiscriminate expenditure, publicity, or support.
The regular plural is used when referring to multiple shovels or multiple types of shovels.
"The workers brought their shovels and buckets to the garden."
The phrase "shovel money" turns an everyday digging tool into a vivid image for money that is plentiful and readily available.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does shovel come from?
The word comes from Middle English "shovel," which developed from an Old English term for a digging or scooping tool. Its deeper history is Germanic, and it is related to words such as Dutch "schepel" and German "Schaufel," which also refer to shovels or scooping implements. In modern English, the verb developed both literal meanings connected with digging and figurative meanings involving moving quantities of material, especially money.
Related word forms
How shovel is actually used
"Shovel" is neutral in register for the physical act of digging or clearing material. Its figurative verb senses can sound informal or dismissive, as in "shoveling blame," while the financial sense, "to shovel money into something," is common in business and political reporting.
Easily confused with shovel
A shovel has a broader, usually shorter blade for moving loose material, whereas a spade has a narrower, heavier blade designed primarily for digging.
A scoop is a smaller implement or utensil for lifting and transferring material, while a shovel is generally a larger tool with a long handle.