power shovel

noun

1. any self-propelled shovel for excavating earth, ore, or coal with a dipper that is powered by a diesel engine or electric motor. Compare shovel ( def 2 ).

Word History and Origins

Origin of power shovel¹

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

The next time he went into Mallorysport, he decided, he was going to shop around for a good power-shovel.

From Project Gutenberg

Dave Questell's construction crew began at once on the water tank, using a power shovel to dig the foundation.

From Project Gutenberg