shovel
noun
an implement consisting of a broad blade or scoop attached to a long handle, used for taking up, removing, or throwing loose matter, as earth, snow, or coal.
was shoveling
-
past progressiveof shovel.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
When I was 8 years old, I was shoveling sidewalks.
From MarketWatch ● Mar. 30, 2026
Harris, who was shoveling a snow berm, said he feels safe where he’s located.
From Seattle Times ● Jan. 24, 2024
“Today, I tipped a kid who was shoveling outside 30 Rock, and he said, ‘Thanks, Mr. Fallon.’
From New York Times ● Jan. 17, 2024
Rowen Lee was shoveling sand from a pile on Palo Alto Avenue into bags, which she and her family then carried across the street to their Palo Alto house, which was flooded Saturday.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 3, 2023
When I came back to the table, Luke was shoveling the cereal in his mouth as fast as he could.
From "Three Little Words: A Memoir" by Ashley Rhodes-Courter
