■ verb ( ~s , ~ging ; past and past participle dug )
1》 break up and move earth with a tool or with hands, paws, etc.
↘make (a hole) by ~ging.
↘extract from the ground by ~ging.
↘( ~ in ) (of a soldier) protect oneself by making a trench or similar ground defence.
↘excavate (an archaeological site).
2》 push or poke sharply: he dug his hands into his pockets.
3》 search, rummage, or investigate.
↘( ~ something out/up ) bring out or discover something after a search.
4》 ( ~ in ) begin eating heartily.
5》 informal, dated like or appreciate.
■ noun
1》 an act or spell of ~ging.
↘an archaeological excavation.
2》 a sharp push or poke.
3》 informal a mocking or critical remark.
Phrases
~ up dirt informal discover and reveal damaging information about someone.
~ oneself into a hole get oneself into an awkward or restrictive situation.
~ in one's heels stubbornly refuse to give in.
Origin
ME: perh. from OE dīc 'ditch'.