excavator

noun

ex·​ca·​va·​tor ˈek-skə-ˌvā-tər 

: one that excavates

especially : a power-operated shovel

Examples of excavator in a Sentence

The excavators found ancient tools at the site.

Recent Examples on the Web

When an excavator cuts through the barrier beach, allowing ocean water in. — Jacob Wycoff, CBS News, 8 Aug. 2026

In Gaza City, community elders, mokhtars, local dignitaries and civil defense crews gathered Tuesday for a mass funeral after the recovery effort that was accomplished with a single excavator and simple hand tools. — Bilal Shbeir, Los Angeles Times, 5 Aug. 2026

Idaho State Police said the damage was caused by a truck hauling an excavator. — Rachel Roberts, Idaho Statesman, 4 Aug. 2026

The vessel was also loaded with 180 vehicles, mostly trucks, and an excavator. — ABC News, 3 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

excavate + -or entry 1

First Known Use

circa 1815, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for excavator

• activator
• actuator
• agitator
• alligator
• allocator
• alternator
• animator
• annotator
• applicator
• arbitrator
• aspirator
• aviator

Medical Definition

excavator

noun

ex·​ca·​va·​tor ˈek-skə-ˌvāt-ər 

: an instrument used to open bodily cavities (as in the teeth) or remove material from them