mattock

American  

[mat-uhk] / ˈmæt ək /

noun

1. an instrument for loosening the soil in digging, shaped like a pickax, but having one end broad instead of pointed.

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mattock British  

/ ˈmætək /

noun

1. a type of large pick that has one end of its blade shaped like an adze, used for loosening soil, cutting roots, etc

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Etymology

Origin of mattock

before 900; Middle English mattok, Old English mattuc

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

mattock

I avoid toxins of all sorts in the garden, but I am merciless with a trowel, a shovel or a mattock when it comes to plant removal.

From Seattle Times ● Sep. 24, 2022

Using a small ax called a mattock to loosen the dirt, he uprooted several with a gentle tug, depositing them in a plastic grocery bag.

From New York Times ● Apr. 25, 2022

My preferred tool for planting in tight spots is the mattock, especially if the soil is on the poor side.

From Washington Post ● Oct. 20, 2020

She can appear as a fierce temple guardian, her hefty pick mattock hanging like a threat from her backpack.

From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 27, 2015

But this discomfort was worth it because when he gripped the mattock, a digging tool that looked a lot like a spear, his blisters thanked him by not erupting in pain.

From "Healer of the Water Monster" by Brian Young

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