digging

word · lemma: dig

/ˈdɪɡɪŋ/
DI-ging
/dˈɪɡɪŋ/
DI-ging

Definition

The action of making a hole in the ground or moving earth with your hands, a tool, or a machine. In informal English, it can also mean strongly investigating something or enjoying and appreciating something.

Usage & Nuances

The literal meaning is common in everyday and work contexts: 'digging a hole', 'digging in the garden'. Informally, 'digging into' often means examining closely, and 'dig' can mean 'like' in casual speech, though that use can sound dated in some contexts.

Example Sentences

They are digging a hole in the yard.

basic

The dog kept digging near the tree.

basic

We heard workers digging outside.

basic

She's been digging into the company’s finances for weeks.

natural

I’m really digging this new band lately.

natural

Stop digging through my bag without asking.

natural