spade

[speษชd]

spade Definition

a tool with a flat blade and a long handle, used for digging or cutting earth, sand, turf, etc..

Using spade: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "spade" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    He dug a hole in the garden with a spade.

  • Example

    She used a spade to cut through the roots of the tree.

  • Example

    The workers were using spades to clear the debris.

  • Example

    The gardener was carrying a spade over his shoulder.

spade Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for spade

Phrases with spade

  • to speak plainly and directly about a topic, even if it is unpleasant or difficult

    Example

    I'm going to call a spade a spade and say that your behavior was unacceptable.

  • the hard, basic work that is necessary for a project or task

    Example

    The first step in writing a book is doing the spade work of research and outlining.

  • spade foot

    a type of toad with wide, spadelike hind feet

    Example

    The spade foot is a nocturnal toad that burrows into the ground during the day.

Origins of spade

from Old English 'spadu'

๐Ÿ“Œ

Summary: spade in Brief

'Spade' [speษชd] is a noun referring to a tool with a flat blade and long handle used for digging or cutting earth, sand, turf, etc. Examples include 'He dug a hole in the garden with a spade.' The phrase 'call a spade a spade' means to speak plainly and directly about a topic, while 'spade work' refers to the hard, basic work necessary for a project or task.

How do native speakers use this expression?