Definition

The quantity of material that can be held in a shovel at one time.

Example

He filled the wheelbarrow with a shovelful of dirt.

Conversation

How much soil do you think we need for the garden bed?

I’d say at least a shovelful should be enough to start.

That sounds reasonable; I can get a shovelful from the shed.

Perfect! Let’s see how that looks before we add more.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Shovelful is formed from "shovel" (from Old English *sceofol*, meaning a tool for digging or lifting) and "-ful" (meaning full of). The word "shovelful" refers to the amount that a shovel can hold, or being full of what a shovel can carry.

Memory Tip

Think of a shovel being 'full of' something — that's what shovelful means.

Visually Confused Words