v.
(digs, digging; past and past part. dug)
- break up and move earth with a tool or with hands, paws, etc.
▸make (a hole) by digging.
▸extract from the ground by digging.
▸
(dig in)
(of a soldier) protect oneself by making a trench or similar ground defence.
▸excavate (an archaeological site).
- push or poke sharply:
he dug his hands into his pockets.
- search, rummage, or investigate.
▸
(dig something out/up)
bring out or discover something after a search.
-
(dig in)
begin eating heartily.
- informal, dated like or appreciate.
n.
- an act or spell of digging.
▸an archaeological excavation.
- a sharp push or poke.
- informal a mocking or critical remark.
Phrase
- dig up dirt
informal discover and reveal damaging information about someone. - dig oneself into a hole
get oneself into an awkward or restrictive situation. - dig in one's heels
stubbornly refuse to give in.
Etymology
ME: perh. from OE dīc ‘ditch’.