digger

dig-ger · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A person who digs, especially one who digs for gold or other minerals.

  2. 2.

    A machine used for digging, such as an excavator.

  3. 3.

    (Australian/New Zealand slang) A soldier, especially from World War I.

Forms

plural: diggers

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    gold digger — A person who seeks wealth through relationships (informal, often derogatory)
  • •
    grave digger — A person who digs graves

Related words

See also: dig, excavator, miner
Synonyms: excavator, miner, prospector

Etymology

From Middle English diggen ("to dig") + -er (agent suffix).