Synonyms of excavate

excavate

verb

ˈek-skə-ˌvāt 

as in to dig

to hollow out or form (something) by removing earth

workmen are excavating a long tunnel that will eventually replace the aboveground expressway

Synonyms & Similar Words

• dig
• shovel
• dredge
• burrow
• quarry
• delve
• scoop
• claw
• mine
• grub
• spade
• dig in

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• fill (in)
• smooth (out or over)

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of excavate

Building on such discoveries, the 2026–2030 plan calls for underwater robots, deep-diving equipment and specialized tools capable of carefully excavating fragile remains on the seabed. — Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 1 Nov. 2026

Fidan’s team has spent over five years excavating sections of the mound. — Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 28 Oct. 2026

The structures have never been excavated before, researchers said, according to Jam Press. — Andrea Margolis, FOXNews.com, 26 Oct. 2026

Spread Gravel Gophers prefer to excavate smooth, loose dirt, so spreading a 6- to 8-inch layer of coarse gravel around flexible underground irrigation pipes or cables can protect them from gnawing gophers. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 24 Oct. 2026