shovelful etymology

Etymology:

  • "Shovel" (noun): Middle English "shovel," from Old English "scofel," meaning "shovel" or "broom"
  • "-ful" (suffix): Old English "-full," meaning "full" or "as much as can be held"

Meaning:

A shovelful is an amount that can be held or moved in a single shovel. It can refer to the amount of material (e.g., dirt, sand, snow) that can fit onto the blade of a shovel.

Origin:

The term "shovelful" emerged in the late Middle English period (around the 14th century) as a way to describe a specific quantity of material that could be handled with a shovel. The word "shovel" itself originates from the Old English word "scofel," which referred to a tool used for scooping or removing materials. The suffix "-ful" is commonly used to indicate fullness or a complete measure of something.

Usage:

"Shovelful" is used in various contexts:

  • Gardening: Estimating the amount of soil or compost needed for digging or planting.
  • Construction: Measuring the volume of concrete, gravel, or other materials being moved.
  • Snow removal: Describing the amount of snow removed per shovel.
  • Cooking: Measuring dry ingredients like flour or sugar in baking and cooking recipes.
  • Figurative expressions: Sometimes used figuratively to convey the idea of an abundant or overwhelming amount.

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