digger etymology

Etymology:

The word "digger" has multiple origins:

1. Middle English: "diggere" (noun), "diggen" (verb), from Old English "dician" (to dig), ultimately from Proto-Indo-European root "*deik-" (to point, indicate)
2. Australian English: "digger" (noun), an affectionate nickname for Australian soldiers, first used during the Boer War (1899-1902)

Meaning:

1. A person or machine that digs.
2. A person who searches for something by digging, especially for gold or other valuables.
3. (Australian English) A member of the Australian Army, especially a veteran.

Origin:

1. Excavation:

The term "digger" has been used to describe people who dig since the Middle Ages. It initially referred to those who dug for practical purposes, such as farmers or construction workers.

2. Gold Rush:

During the California Gold Rush in the mid-19th century, the term "digger" gained prominence as a slang word for gold seekers. Miners would often spend days or weeks digging in the dirt in search of precious metals.

3. Australian Soldiers:

The nickname "digger" for Australian soldiers originated during the Boer War. Australian troops served as part of the British Army and were known for their resilience and determination in digging trenches. The nickname stuck and has become a symbol of Australian military identity.

digger relate terms

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• shovel

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• coulrophobia

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• shark

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• quell

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• deed

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