shovels

Definition of shovelsnext
present tense third-person singular of shovel
as in digs
to hollow out or form (something) by removing earth the troops quickly shoveled a trench

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of shovels Lewis, of Madison, shovels snow during a blizzard, March 16, 2026 in Madison, Wisconsin. Kathryn Prociv, NBC news, 17 Mar. 2026 Almost immediately in the CNN Films documentary, Chase shovels fresh dirt on himself, telling intrepid filmmaker Marina Zenovich that her task will not be easy. Ben Crandell, Sun Sentinel, 25 Feb. 2026 Plus, shovels only work well with light, fluffy snow, as wet, heavy snow is difficult to lift and move with the tool. Catherine Messier, The Providence Journal, 23 Jan. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for shovels
Verb
  • Support journalism that digs deeper into topics that matter most to Arkansans.
    Neal Earley, Arkansas Online, 2 Apr. 2026
  • Ray has been with the Panthers for three seasons, and the staff digs his ability to rotate into the front.
    Mike Kaye March 26, Charlotte Observer, 26 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • As Polly excavates the darkest parts of herself, the film can’t string together a build to match the depths of her soul-searching.
    J. Kim Murphy, Variety, 11 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Shovels.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/shovels. Accessed 7 Apr. 2026.

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