open-cut

[ oh-puhn-kuht ]

adjective

, Mining.

1. noting or pertaining to a type of surface mining in which coal and other flat-lying mineral deposits are removed by the excavation of long, narrow trenches.

open cut

noun

1. See cut-and-cover
   civil engineering an excavation made in the open rather than in a tunnel See cut-and-cover

Word History and Origins

Origin of open-cut¹

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

The open cut replaces completely the so-called Bergen Tunnel, which has already become a matter of history.

From Project Gutenberg

The bonnet instantly ducked under his arm, and a line of razor-like knuckles left an open cut under his eye.

From Project Gutenberg

On this level line an open cut was made and the outlet pipe laid.

From Project Gutenberg

He was really too weak to go far; and besides, that open cut did seem to be bleeding seriously.

From Project Gutenberg

Our first excursion will be to a locality where an open cut has been made for the purpose of carrying on quarrying operations.

From Project Gutenberg