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
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.
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'
Summary: spade in Brief
'Spade' [speɪd] 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.