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.
were shovelling
-
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.
Haki Mohammed and his brothers were shovelling manure on their farm in Yusifiyah in the spring of 2003 when the soldier arrived.
From The Guardian ● Jan. 7, 2011
At half-past four they were shovelling out the mountain of sand and making the hearth for it.
From Mushroom Town by Oliver Onions
Gangs of men were shovelling for the dead.
From The Trail of '98 A Northland Romance by Robert W. (Robert William) Service
Men in the street were shovelling at the snow.
From The Third Violet by Stephen Crane
Dinner was already served––beans, fried mutton, and bread, spread upon a greasy canvas––and the hungry herders were shovelling it down with knives in their own primitive way when Hardy rode up the slope.
From Hidden Water by Maynard Dixon
