Definition

A type of heavy machinery used for digging and moving earth, which has a bucket attached to a hinged arm that can scoop and pull material towards the machine.

Example

The construction crew used a backhoe to dig the foundation for the new building.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a backhoe in action?

Yeah, they’re really impressive machines for digging.

I watched one digging a foundation last week; it was fascinating!

I know, right? They make the work look so easy!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Backhoe → The word is formed from "back" (meaning the rear part) and "hoe" (from Old English "hōg", meaning a tool for digging). A backhoe is a digging machine that operates at the rear, using a hoe-like attachment.

Memory Tip

Think of a machine that digs from the 'back' — that's why it's called a backhoe, as it uses a hoe tool to dig.

Visually Confused Words