trenching spade

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Word: Trenching Spade

Definition: A "trenching spade" is a type of hand shovel that is used by soldiers, especially infantrymen, to dig trenches. Trenches are long, narrow holes in the ground that provide protection for soldiers during battles.

Usage Instructions:

• A trenching spade has a long handle and a flat, narrow blade.
• It is designed specifically for digging deep and narrow holes, making it easier to create trenches.

Example:

• "The soldiers worked quickly, using their trenching spades to dig defensive positions in the muddy ground."

Advanced Usage:

• In military contexts, trenching spades are essential tools during warfare, especially in situations where soldiers need to create cover from enemy fire.
• They can also be used in gardening or landscaping for digging narrow holes or planting deep-rooted plants.

Word Variants:

• Trench (noun): A long, narrow ditch.
• Spade (noun): A tool for digging, often with a broader blade than a trenching spade.

Different Meanings:

• Outside of military use, "spade" can also refer to a playing card suit (♠) or be used in phrases describing a digging tool.

Synonyms:

• Shovel
• Digging tool
• Hand spade

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• "Dig in": This phrase means to start working hard or preparing for a difficult situation. For example, "When the storm hit, we had to dig in and secure our home."
• "Dig deep": This means to look for inner strength or resources. For example, "In times of trouble, you have to dig deep to find the courage to continue."

Summary:

A trenching spade is a specialized tool for digging trenches, primarily used by soldiers.

Academic

Noun

1. a hand shovel carried by infantrymen for digging trenches

Synonyms

• entrenching tool