excavator

noun

ex·​ca·​va·​tor ˈek-skə-ˌvā-tər How to pronounce excavator (audio)
: 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
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
The excavator’s arm actually moves—cue hours of scooping action. Shanna Shipin, Glamour, 7 Oct. 2024 The maker of excavators and heavy equipment is selling a lot less in China as the economy slows, construction slumps and competition stiffens. Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 8 Sep. 2024 Heavy machinery including trucks and excavators were then deployed to at least one of the roads, which was partially blocked by a black barrier, according to the video. Gawon Bae, CNN, 15 Oct. 2024 Deeper amid the rubble, several yellow-vested first responders stood by as an excavator rumbled toward them. Rania Abouzeid, The New Yorker, 11 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for excavator 

Word History

Etymology

excavate + -or entry 1

First Known Use

circa 1815, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of excavator was circa 1815

Dictionary Entries Near excavator

Cite this Entry

“Excavator.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/excavator. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

excavator

noun
ex·​ca·​va·​tor ˈek-skə-ˌvāt-ər How to pronounce excavator (audio)
: an instrument used to open bodily cavities (as in the teeth) or remove material from them
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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