/shuv"euhl/ , n. , v. , shoveled, shoveling or ( esp. Brit. ) shovelled, shovelling .
n.
1. an implement consisting of a broad blade or scoop attached to a long handle, used for taking up, removing, or throwing loose matter, as earth, snow, or coal.
2. any fairly large contrivance or machine with a broad blade or scoop for taking up or removing loose matter: a steam shovel.
3. a shovelful.
4. Informal. See shovel hat .
v.t.
5. to take up and cast or remove with a shovel: to shovel coal.
6. to gather up in large quantity roughly or carelessly with or as if with a shovel: He shoveled food into his mouth.
7. to dig or clear with or as if with a shovel: to shovel a path through the snow.
v.i.
8. to work with a shovel.
[ bef. 900; ME schovel, OE scofl; c. D schoffel hoe; akin to G Schaufel shovel ]