If you are into gardening, construction, or any other kind of outdoor work, you may have come across a hand held shovel. These small, versatile tools are commonly used for digging and lifting soil, snow, or any other loose material. But have you ever wondered what a hand held shovel is officially called?
The answer is quite simple: a hand held shovel is commonly known as a trowel. The word “trowel” originates from the Old English word “trutel,” which means “spade.” The design of the trowel is characterized by a long handle and a flat, pointed blade. This compact size allows for easy maneuverability and precise digging, making it an essential tool for any gardener or construction worker.
The trowel is not only limited to gardening or construction purposes. It is also widely used in archaeology for digging and clearing earth at excavation sites. In fact, the trowel is considered an iconic symbol of archaeology. The narrow blade of the trowel enables archaeologists to excavate delicate artifacts and uncover historical treasures with great care and precision.
So, whether you are a professional gardener, archaeologist, or simply an enthusiast for outdoor work, the hand held shovel, also known as the trowel, is an indispensable tool that will assist you in various tasks with its versatility and practicality.
Definition of a Hand Held Shovel
A hand held shovel, also known as a hand shovel or a hand trowel, is a small tool that is designed for manual digging and lifting operations. It is commonly used in gardening, landscaping, construction, and other outdoor activities.
Structure and Features
A hand held shovel typically consists of a handle and a blade. The handle is usually made of wood, plastic, or metal, and it provides a grip for the user to hold onto while using the shovel. The length of the handle can vary depending on the type and purpose of the shovel.
The blade of a hand held shovel is usually made of metal, such as steel or aluminum. It is flat and slightly curved, with a sharp edge that allows for efficient digging and cutting through soil or other materials. The blade can come in different shapes and sizes, depending on the intended use of the shovel.
Uses
Hand held shovels are commonly used for a variety of tasks, such as:
| Gardening | Planting flowers, vegetables, or small shrubs |
| Landscaping | Creating or maintaining small garden beds, removing weeds, or transferring soil |
| Construction | Digging holes for fence posts, installing small structures, or excavating small areas |
| Camping | Clearing a campsite, digging fire pits, or creating makeshift latrines |
| Snow removal | Clearing snow from walkways or small areas |
Overall, a hand held shovel is a versatile and essential tool for any outdoor activity that requires manual digging, lifting, or moving of materials.
Common names for a hand held shovel
A hand held shovel can also be referred to by various other names depending on the region and the specific use case. Below are some of the common names for a hand held shovel:
Trowel
A trowel is a small hand held shovel with a flat, pointed blade that is typically used for digging small holes, planting bulbs, and transplanting seedlings. It is commonly used in gardening and masonry work.
Garden shovel
A garden shovel is a general term for a hand held shovel that is specifically designed for use in gardening. It typically has a rounded blade and a shorter handle compared to other types of shovels.
| Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Digging shovel | A digging shovel is a larger hand held shovel that is used for digging deeper holes, such as for planting trees or large shrubs. |
| Scoop shovel | A scoop shovel has a wide, rounded blade that is used for scooping loose material, such as soil or gravel. |
| Transplanter | A transplanter is a hand held shovel that is specifically designed for transplanting small plants without damaging their roots. |
These are just a few examples of the common names for a hand held shovel. The specific term used may vary depending on the industry and the region, but the basic purpose of the tool remains the same: to move and manipulate small amounts of soil or other materials.
Different types of hand held shovels
Hand held shovels are versatile tools used for various tasks, ranging from gardening to construction. There are different types of hand held shovels available, each designed for specific purposes. Let’s explore some of the common types:
1. Digging Shovels
Digging shovels, also known as spades, are commonly used for digging and lifting soil, gravel, or other loose materials. They have a sharp, pointed blade that can penetrate the ground easily. Digging shovels are ideal for tasks such as planting, trenching, and edging.
2. Trenching Shovels
Trenching shovels have a long, narrow blade that is designed for digging deep and narrow trenches. They are commonly used in construction and landscaping projects that require the installation of underground utilities, such as pipes or cables. Trenching shovels are also useful for creating irrigation channels or clearing out debris.
3. Garden Shovels
Garden shovels are specifically designed for gardening tasks. They have a rounded blade that is ideal for digging, lifting, and moving soil, compost, or mulch. Garden shovels may also come with measurements on the blade, making them useful for planting bulbs or small plants at the right depth.
4. Snow Shovels
Snow shovels are used for clearing snow from sidewalks, driveways, and other surfaces. They have a wide, flat blade that can efficiently scoop up snow and push it aside. Snow shovels often have a curved handle or a second handle near the blade for better leverage and control.
5. Scoop Shovels
Scoop shovels, also known as grain scoops, are designed for handling loose materials such as grains, sand, or gravel. They have a wide, deep blade with a curved or flat bottom that allows for easy scooping and lifting. Scoop shovels are commonly used in agricultural and construction settings.
These are just a few examples of the many types of hand held shovels available. When choosing a hand held shovel, consider the specific task you will be using it for, as well as your personal preferences and comfort. With the right shovel, your tasks can be completed more efficiently and effectively.
Uses of a hand held shovel
A hand held shovel is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of purposes. Here are some common uses:
GardeningA hand held shovel is an essential tool for gardening tasks such as planting, transplanting, and weeding. It allows for precise digging and helps to minimize damage to delicate plants. |
LandscapingWhen working on landscaping projects, a hand held shovel is useful for tasks like digging holes for plants or small trees, creating trenches for irrigation or electrical lines, and leveling soil. |
Snow RemovalDuring winter months, a hand held shovel can be used to clear snow from pathways, driveways, and steps. Its compact size makes it easy to maneuver and remove snow effectively. |
Camping and HikingA hand held shovel is a handy tool to have when camping or hiking. It can be used for tasks such as digging fire pits, clearing debris, and creating small trenches for drainage. |
Construction and DIY ProjectsWhen working on construction or DIY projects, a hand held shovel can be used for tasks like digging holes for fence posts, mixing and moving small amounts of materials, and removing debris. |
