excavation
UK: ˌekskəˈveɪʃn | US: ˌekskəˈveɪʃn
n. the act or process of digging or removing earth, especially to uncover archaeological remains
n. a site where earth has been dug out, such as an archaeological dig
n. (figurative) the act of uncovering or revealing something hidden
excavation = ex<out> + cav<hollow> + ation<noun suffix>
- ex (Latin: "out")
- cav (Latin: "hollow," from cavus)
- ation (noun-forming suffix indicating an action or process)
Etymology Origin:
The word "excavation" originates from Latin excavare ("to hollow out"), combining ex- (out) and cavus (hollow). It entered English via French in the 17th century, initially describing literal digging. Over time, it expanded to metaphorical uses, such as uncovering hidden truths. The morphemes reflect the core idea of "creating a hollow space by removing material."
The excavation of the ancient tomb revealed well-preserved artifacts.
Archaeologists began the excavation after discovering pottery fragments.
The construction site required deep excavation to lay the foundation.
Her research felt like an excavation of forgotten historical events.
The team documented every step of the excavation process.