steam shovel

noun

steam-shovel

a steam-driven mechanical excavator, esp one having a large bucket or grab on a beam slung from a revolving jib

An Americanism dating back to 1875–80

Can anyone imagine how a thought can turn into a steam shovel, or a steam shovel into a thought?

Compare the two things, a state of consciousness and say, a steam shovel.

But strength plows its scornful way through temperament like a steam-shovel.

A few minutes' walk brought them in sight of the big steam shovel, which was doing the work of two hundred men with wheelbarrows.

As the little party drew nearer, they could see more plainly the heaps of mud and wet dirt left in the wake of the steam shovel.

April 19, 2024tortuous

[tawr-choo-uhs ]

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