Synonyms for

Dig

Verb / dɪg / Another word for dig — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To break up, move, or remove earth, sand, etc., as with a shovel, spade, bulldozer, or claw; make an excavation.

Synonyms & similar words

labor jab grok moil labour travail digging toil fag drudge stab prod grind excavation delve savvy excavate grasp hollow apprehend shot shaft comprehend gibe compass excavate tunnel burrow delve shovel spade move remove displace dredge scoop grub root plow cultivate harvest mine quarry extract

Synonyms by register

Formal

excavate unearth probe investigate

Informal

scoop chip away hack away

Literary

delve rummage

Antonyms

fill cover bury conceal hide stuff

Common collocations

  • dig a hole
  • dig up bones
  • dig for information
  • dig into the past
  • dig out of trouble
  • dig your heels in
  • dig a grave
  • dig a tunnel

Word family

noun dig
verb dig
adjective diggable

Usage note

The informal sense of 'dig' meaning to understand or appreciate something is often used with 'get'. For example, 'I don't get that joke'.

Compare "dig" with another word →

Example sentences

  1. I like to dig in the sand at the beach.
  2. My dog likes to dig holes in the backyard.
  3. We need to dig a hole to plant this tree.
  4. The construction workers are digging a foundation for the new building.
  5. I dug through my closet to find my favorite shirt.

Quotes

  • A little sweat saves a lot of blood. - Erwin Rommel
  • I have been digging my own potatoes for five years, and have never grown tired of the exercise. - John Burroughs
  • The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others. - Mahatma Gandhi

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