mattock

[ mat-uhk ]

noun

1. an instrument for loosening the soil in digging, shaped like a pickax, but having one end broad instead of pointed.

mattock

/ ˈmætək /

noun

1. a type of large pick that has one end of its blade shaped like an adze, used for loosening soil, cutting roots, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of mattock¹

before 900; Middle English mattok, Old English mattuc

Word History and Origins

Origin of mattock¹

Old English mattuc, of unknown origin; related to Latin mateola club, mallet

Example Sentences

Officers found two men, believed to be aged in their 40s, with injuries thought to have been caused by a mattock, a type of pick-axe.

From BBC

Nathan slammed the mattock into the ground.

From Literature

But this discomfort was worth it because when he gripped the mattock, a digging tool that looked a lot like a spear, his blisters thanked him by not erupting in pain.

From Literature

Nathan slammed the mattock to the side of the metal fence post until it wiggled like a loose tooth.

From Literature

I avoid toxins of all sorts in the garden, but I am merciless with a trowel, a shovel or a mattock when it comes to plant removal.

From Seattle Times