spud
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /spʌd/
KK: /spəd/
noun
Definition
A slang term for a potato, often used informally.
Example
I made mashed spuds for dinner last night.
Conversation
What do you want for dinner tonight, a salad or something with a spud?
I'm definitely in the mood for a spud — maybe some mashed potatoes!
That sounds great! I can add some garlic to the spud for extra flavor.
Perfect! I love garlic mashed potatoes.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
tater
potato
digging
Antonyms
weed
fitting
disconnect
transitive verb
Definition
To start drilling for oil or to remove something using a tool that has a spade-like shape.
Example
The crew will spud the new oil well next week.
Tense Forms
Past: spudded
Past Participle: spudded
Conversation
Did you hear they are going to spud a new oil well nearby?
Yeah, I read about that! It could create a lot of jobs.
I wonder how long it will take them to spud it completely.
Root Explanation
The word 'spud' originates from the late 19th century, likely derived from the dialectal term 'spudde' (meaning a digging tool or spade) in British English. It refers specifically to a potato, which is often associated with the act of digging in the ground.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'digging tool' ('spudde') used to unearth potatoes from the ground, which helps you remember that 'spud' refers to a potato.
Visually Confused Words
sud
pud