DIG Meaning and
Definition
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Dig can be defined as a verb with multiple meanings depending on the context. Primarily, dig refers to the action of breaking up, turning over, or loosening the earth or any other material using a tool such as a shovel or spade. This action is commonly performed for various purposes like planting, excavating, or constructing. Additionally, dig can also pertain to the act of creating a hole or cavity by removing earth or other substances, often in search of something or to bury an object.
Figuratively, dig can be used when someone is investigating deeply or searching intensively for information, often revealing hidden or obscure details about a particular subject. It can also be used to describe the act of praising or appreciating someone enthusiastically, especially in a light-hearted or teasing manner, such as "digging" someone's sense of style or humor.
Furthermore, dig is often used colloquially to refer to enjoying or finding pleasure in something, such as music, art, or a particular activity. It can also be used metaphorically to describe understanding or grasping a concept or idea, as in "getting the dig."
Overall, dig encompasses various meanings ranging from physical actions like digging the earth to metaphorical interpretations of investigation, appreciation, and comprehension.
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• To open or turn up the earth with a spade; to excavate; to work with a spade; to search.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for DIG *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for DIG
Etymology of DIG
The word "dig" has multiple etymological origins.
One source of the word comes from the Old English verb "dig-", which meant "to dig" or "to excavate". This Old English word is related to the Middle Low German word "diggen", the Middle Dutch word "diggelen", and the Old Norse word "dikja", all of which also mean "to dig".
Another source of the word "dig" comes from the Late Middle English term "dyke", which meant "a ditch" or "a trench". The word "dyke" was derived from the Middle Dutch word "dic" or "dijk", ultimately originating from the Old Norse word "diki", all of which referred to a "ditch" or an "embankment".
Idioms with the word DIG
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dig your heels in
The idiom "dig your heels in" means to firmly refuse to change your opinion, attitude, or course of action, even if there is opposition or pressure to do so. It implies a stubborn determination to stand your ground and not give in to outside pressures.
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poke/dig sb in the ribs
The idiom "poke/dig someone in the ribs" means to jab or nudge someone with one's elbow or fist, usually in a playful or secretive manner, in order to draw their attention to something or to convey a message.
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dig/dip into your pocket
The idiom "dig/dip into your pocket" means to spend or contribute money, often reluctantly or with some difficulty. It signifies reaching into one's pocket or wallet to retrieve funds in order to make a payment or cover expenses. It can also imply generosity or selflessness when someone willingly contributes or donates money for a cause or to help someone.
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dig sm dirt up
The idiom "dig up some dirt" refers to the act of uncovering or discovering damaging or incriminating information about someone, usually to use it against them or tarnish their reputation. It implies the act of searching for hidden or secret details that may expose someone's flaws or wrongdoings.
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dig the dirt
The idiom "dig the dirt" means to find or uncover damaging or embarrassing information about someone, typically with the intention of using it against them or for personal gain. It involves investigating, researching, or seeking out hidden details or secrets about a person's past or present that could potentially harm their reputation.
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dig sm dirt up (on sm)
The idiom "dig up dirt (on someone)" means to gather or uncover damaging or incriminating information about someone, often with the intention to harm or discredit them. It is often used to describe thorough investigations or research aimed at finding personal secrets or scandalous details about someone's past.
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dig down
The idiom "dig down" typically means to search deeply or thoroughly for information or resources. It can also refer to delving into one's own reserves or capabilities in order to accomplish something difficult or overcome a challenge.
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dig in
The idiom "dig in" has multiple meanings based on the context:
1. To start eating eagerly or with enthusiasm.
Example: "When the food arrived, we all dug in and finished our plates."
2. To take a strong stand or position and refuse to back down.
Example: "Despite facing criticism, she dug in and defended her unpopular ideas."
3. To commence or intensify a task or activity.
Example: "Let's dig in and get this project finished on time."
4. To bury oneself or something under the ground.
Example: "The dog likes to dig in the backyard and bury its bones."
Overall, "dig in" implies a determined and enthusiastic approach towards starting or continuing an action, whether it pertains
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Dig up!
The idiom "Dig up!" is a colloquial expression used to encourage someone to disclose or reveal information or facts that are not readily known or easily accessible. It implies that the person should make efforts to research, investigate, or find out more about a particular subject or topic. It can also be used in a more literal sense, where someone is urged to physically dig or excavate to find or uncover something, often in a playful or joking manner.
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dig one's heels in
To "dig one's heels in" means to refuse to change one's opinion, position, or decision, and to be stubbornly resistant to others' attempts to persuade or influence. It refers to a determined and unwavering resolve to stick to one's beliefs or plans, even in the face of opposition or pressure.
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dig sth out
The idiom "dig sth out" means to retrieve or find something that is buried, hidden, or difficult to find by searching or digging through something. It can be used both in a literal sense, such as finding an item buried in the ground, or in a figurative sense, like retrieving information or memories that are deeply buried in one's mind.
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dig sth into sth
The idiom "dig sth into sth" generally means to work or mix something into something else vigorously and thoroughly. It can also refer to burying something deeply or firmly in a particular substance or material.
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dig sm or sth up
The idiom "dig something up" means to find or discover something, often after searching or researching extensively. It can also refer to unearthing or revealing information or facts that have been forgotten, hidden, or overlooked.
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dig sm or sth in sth
The idiom "dig (someone or something) in (something)" typically means to bury or place someone or something deep into a particular substance or material. It can be used both in a literal sense, such as digging someone into the sand at the beach, or in a figurative sense, implying deeply engaging or involving someone or something in a certain situation or activity.
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dig heels in
When someone "digs their heels in," it means that they strongly resist or refuse to change their position, opinion, or course of action, even when faced with opposition or pressure to do so. It suggests a stubborn determination to stand firm and not back down.
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dig into
The idiom "dig into" typically means to begin eating something with enthusiasm or to start devouring something eagerly. It can also be used figuratively to describe engaging deeply or intensely in a task, topic, or activity.
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dig your heels/toes in
The idiom "dig your heels/toes in" means to refuse to change one's opinion, stance, or decision, and to resist any attempts to persuade or convince otherwise. It refers to stubbornly holding onto a position or belief, often in a determined or obstinate manner.
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dig (someone)
The idiom "dig (someone)" is an informal phrase that means to like or admire someone very much. It implies finding someone attractive, enjoyable, or fascinating.
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dig (something)
The idiom "dig (something)" typically means to enjoy, understand, or appreciate something. It is often used to express a positive sentiment towards something or to convey enthusiasm for a particular person, thing, or situation.
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dig in(to) (something)
The idiomatic expression "dig in(to) (something)" means to begin eating a meal with enthusiasm and gusto, often using one's hands or utensils to consume the food eagerly. It can also be used in a metaphorical sense, indicating a determined and focused approach to tackling a task or delving into a subject matter.
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dig it
The idiom "dig it" means to understand or appreciate something. It can also be used to express enthusiasm or enjoyment towards something.
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dig out
The idiom "dig out" generally means to remove something, especially by digging or excavating. In a figurative sense, it can also refer to uncovering or finding information or items from the past.
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dig some dirt up
The idiom "dig some dirt up" refers to the act of searching for or uncovering information or secrets about someone, often with the intention of using it against them or for personal gain.
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dig this
The idiom "dig this" typically means to understand or appreciate something in an enthusiastic manner. It can also be used to request or persuade someone to pay attention or listen carefully.
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dig some dirt up (on someone)
The idiom "dig some dirt up (on someone)" means to uncover or discover damaging or incriminating information or secrets about someone, often with the intention of using it against them or exposing them. It typically refers to gathering information about someone's personal or professional life that may be embarrassing or harmful to their reputation.
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dig own grave
The idiom "dig one's own grave" means to do something that will ultimately result in one's own downfall or ruin. It refers to acts or decisions that lead to negative consequences, often self-inflicted, revealing a lack of foresight or awareness of the potential harm or repercussions that may follow.
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dig in one's heels
The idiom "dig in one's heels" means to be stubborn or refuse to change one's stance, opinion, or course of action despite opposition or pressure. It originated from the image of a person digging their heels into the ground to prevent themselves from being moved.
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dig someone or something up
The phrase "dig someone or something up" is an idiomatic expression that typically means to find or discover someone or something that has been forgotten, neglected, or hidden. It can also refer to seeking information or knowledge about a person or a particular subject by researching or investigating.
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dig yourself into a hole
The idiom "dig yourself into a hole" means to create or worsen a troublesome or difficult situation through one's own actions, decisions, or statements. It refers to the idea of progressively getting deeper into trouble or difficulty, similarly to how someone digging into the ground can find themselves in a hole.
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dig at (someone or something)
The idiom "dig at (someone or something)" means to make a sarcastic or critical comment about someone or something in a subtle or indirect manner. It involves making a remark that is meant to be humorous or slyly insulting, often with the intention of undermining or belittling the target.
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take a dig at
The idiom "take a dig at" means to make a critical or sarcastic comment about someone or something, usually in a playful or mocking manner. It is used to express a light-hearted teasing or poking fun at someone or their actions.
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dig (deep) in/into your pocket(s), savings, etc.
The idiom "dig (deep) in/into your pocket(s), savings, etc." means to spend a substantial amount of money. It implies digging or delving into one's financial resources, such as reaching deep into one's pockets or utilizing one's savings extensively to make a payment or cover expenses. This expression is often used to convey a sense of significant expenditure or sacrifice.
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dig deep
"Dig deep" is an idiom that means to exert great effort, determination, or resilience in order to overcome a challenge, solve a problem, or achieve a goal. It implies delving into one's inner strength, resources, or reserves in order to persevere or succeed in a difficult situation.
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dig at sm or sth
The idiom "dig at someone or something" refers to making a subtle or indirect criticism or insult towards someone or something, often in a teasing or sarcastic manner. It involves saying or doing something that implies disapproval or mockery of a person or thing.
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dig out (of sth)
The idiom "dig out (of sth)" typically means to extricate or remove oneself or someone else from a difficult or challenging situation. It often refers to overcoming obstacles or finding a way out of a problematic circumstance.
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dig (deep) into (one's) pocket(s)
The idiom "dig (deep) into (one's) pocket(s)" means to spend a significant amount of money, often more than one is comfortable with or expected to spend. It implies that the person is reaching into their pockets or wallet to retrieve money, indicating a financial sacrifice or burden.
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dig for
The idiom "dig for" means to search or seek something persistently or with great effort, similar to physically digging into the ground to find something valuable or significant buried beneath the surface. It implies a thorough and determined attempt to uncover or discover something.
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dig yourself a hole
The idiom "dig yourself a hole" refers to getting oneself into trouble or a difficult situation by saying or doing something foolish or thoughtless. It suggests that someone is making a mistake or creating their own problem, often unintentionally, through their actions, words, or decisions.
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dig someone or something in something
The idiom "dig someone or something in something" typically means to bury someone or something deeply, either literally or metaphorically. This expression emphasizes the act of placing someone or something inside a particular location or situation.
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dig out of
The idiom "dig out of" means to extricate oneself from a difficult or challenging situation, either by finding a solution or overcoming obstacles. It often implies the need for great effort, determination, and resilience to overcome the difficulties faced.
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dig (oneself) an early grave
The idiom "dig (oneself) an early grave" refers to someone engaging in behavior, actions, or habits that will likely lead to their own downfall or demise, whether it be a physical, mental, social, or professional one. It suggests that one is consciously or unconsciously putting themselves on a self-destructive path, leading to negative consequences or an untimely end.
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dig something into something
The idiom "dig something into something" typically means to push or bury something into a particular substance or material, often using force or effort. It can also metaphorically refer to firmly establishing or embedding something into a particular situation or context.
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give sm a dig
The idiom "give someone a dig" is commonly used to describe the act of teasing or making a light-hearted comment or action with the intention of amusing or playfully provoking someone. It can involve gentle teasing or poking fun at someone in a friendly manner.
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dig (deep) into your pocket(s)/resources/savings
The idiom "dig (deep) into your pocket(s)/resources/savings" means to use or spend a significant amount of money, resources, or savings in order to accomplish something or solve a problem. It implies a need for a substantial financial commitment or resource allocation.
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dig for sth
The idiom "dig for something" typically means to search or investigate something with great effort or determination. It can refer to physically digging in the ground for an object or information, or metaphorically searching deeply for knowledge, insights, or answers.
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dig in your heels
The idiom "dig in your heels" means to stubbornly refuse to change your opinion, decision, or course of action, especially when faced with opposition or pressure. It implies a strong determination to stand firm and hold one's ground.
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dig a grave for yourself
The idiom "dig a grave for yourself" means to engage in actions or behaviors that are likely to lead to one's own downfall or failure. It signifies undertaking actions that have detrimental consequences or making choices that have long-term negative effects on oneself.
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dig something out
The idiom "dig something out" refers to the act of finding, searching for, or retrieving something that is typically buried, hidden, or difficult to find. It can be used both literally and figuratively, indicating the process of uncovering or locating something that requires effort and persistence.
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dig up sth
The idiom "dig up something" means to uncover or find information, secrets, or evidence that was previously hidden or unknown. It suggests conducting thorough research or investigation to uncover something significant.
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dig somebody in the ribs
The idiom "dig somebody in the ribs" refers to giving a playful or subtle poke or nudge to someone's ribs with one's elbow or finger. It is often done to draw their attention or share a private joke.
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dig out sth
The idiom "dig out sth" means to unearth, retrieve, or uncover something that is buried or hidden. It can be used both literally, such as digging out an object from the ground, or figuratively, such as uncovering information or finding a solution to a problem.
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dig (someone) an early grave
The idiom "dig (someone) an early grave" is an expression used to describe actions or behaviors that may lead to someone's downfall or premature demise. It suggests that the person mentioned is engaging in self-destructive behavior or making choices that will have severe consequences in the long run.
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dig (oneself) in(to) a hole
The idiom "dig (oneself) in(to) a hole" means to create or get oneself into a difficult or problematic situation through one's own actions, choices, or statements. It refers to the act of metaphorically digging oneself deeper into a difficult or undesirable situation, often due to a lack of awareness, poor judgment, or stubbornness. It implies a sense of becoming trapped or stuck in a worsening situation as a result of one's own actions or decisions.
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Big Dig
The idiom "Big Dig" refers to a large and extensive construction project, typically involving substantial excavation or tunneling works. It often implies a complex and costly endeavor to improve or expand transportation infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, or tunnels. The term originated from the massive Central Artery/Tunnel Project in Boston, Massachusetts, which involved rerouting highways and creating tunnels underneath the city, colloquially known as the "Big Dig." Subsequently, "Big Dig" came to represent any major infrastructure project with similar characteristics.
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give a dig
To give a dig means to make a subtle or indirect insulting or critical remark towards someone, often with the intention of provoking a reaction or asserting superiority. It can be a form of a light-hearted teasing or an intentionally hurtful comment.
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dig a pit for
The idiom "dig a pit for" typically means to scheme or plot against someone with the intention of causing harm or difficulty for them. It refers to actions taken to trap or trick someone into a disadvantageous situation.
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dig up (sm) dirt (on sb)
The idiom "dig up (sm) dirt (on sb)" refers to the act of uncovering or discovering negative or compromising information about someone in order to use it against them or expose it publicly. It often implies finding scandalous or shameful details from someone's past or personal life.
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dig in heels
The idiom "dig in heels" means to refuse to change one's mind or position on something, and to resist a particular course of action or request. It is often used to describe someone who is determined and unwavering in their stance, and who refuses to back down or give in.
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dig it out
The idiom "dig it out" refers to the act of finding or retrieving something that is buried, hidden, or difficult to access. It often implies a process of searching, excavating, or uncovering something that is concealed or obscured. The idiom can be used figuratively to mean uncovering or revealing information or solving a problem by persistent effort.
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dig deep (into something)
The idiom "dig deep (into something)" means to make a thorough investigation or examination of something, often requiring perseverance and determination to uncover hidden or detailed information. It implies going beyond the surface level and delving into the depths or intricacies of a particular subject or situation.
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dig (someone or oneself) out of a hole
The idiom "dig (someone or oneself) out of a hole" means to help someone or oneself recover from a difficult or problematic situation; to provide assistance or support in resolving a predicament or overcoming challenges. It refers to metaphorically digging a person out of a literal hole or pit, implying the need for rescue or assistance in order to escape a difficult situation.
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dig up dirt
The idiom "dig up dirt" means to search for and uncover incriminating or embarrassing information about someone, especially for the purpose of harming their reputation or causing them trouble. It refers to the act of figuratively digging through the dirt or dirtied past of a person in order to find negative or damaging information.
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dig the dirt (or dig up dirt)
The idiom "dig the dirt" (or "dig up dirt") means to search for or gather information, especially scandalous or damaging information, about someone in order to uncover their secrets or weaknesses, often with the intention of using it against them or tarnishing their reputation. It can also refer to gossiping or spreading rumors about someone.
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dig at
The idiom "dig at" generally means to make a subtle or indirect criticism or insult towards someone or something, often in a light-hearted or teasing manner. It can involve making snide or sarcastic remarks, poking fun at someone, or mocking them in a playful way.
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dig one's own grave
The idiom "dig one's own grave" means to do something that will ultimately result in one's own downfall or harm, often due to one's own actions or choices. It implies a metaphorical self-destructive behavior or decision that will have negative consequences for oneself.
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give someone a dig
The idiom "give someone a dig" means to make a pointed remark or criticize someone indirectly, often in a playful or teasing manner. It is usually used when someone wants to subtly or sarcastically point out a flaw or error in someone's behavior or actions.
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take a dig at sm
The idiom "take a dig at someone" means to make a sarcastic or critical remark about someone in order to tease, mock, or belittle them. It often implies a subtle or indirect insult intended to provoke a reaction or undermine the person's confidence or credibility.
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dig your own grave
The idiom "dig your own grave" means to intentionally or unwittingly do something that will cause harm, ruin, or failure to oneself in the future, often due to foolish or self-destructive actions or decisions. It suggests that one's own actions will lead to their downfall or create negative consequences for themselves.
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dig out of (something)
The idiom "dig out of (something)" means to extricate oneself or someone else from a difficult, challenging, or problematic situation by making a significant effort and finding a solution or a way out. It implies overcoming obstacles, usually with great determination and persistence.
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dig into your pocket
The idiom "dig into your pocket" means to spend or contribute money, typically in a somewhat reluctant or reluctant manner. It suggests reaching into one's own resources or funds to afford something or make a financial contribution.
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dig for (something)
The idiom "dig for (something)" refers to searching or investigating extensively to find or obtain information, facts, or evidence. It often implies the act of conducting thorough research or inquiry, often with determination and persistence, in order to uncover something specific. The term "dig" is used metaphorically, suggesting the idea of digging into a subject or topic deeply in order to uncover hidden or valuable insights.
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dig sm or sth out of sth
The idiom "dig something/someone out of something" typically means to extract or remove something or someone from a certain place or situation. It can be used both literally and figuratively. In a literal sense, it refers to physically excavating something or someone from a specific location, while in a figurative sense, it implies bringing something to light or retrieving something from obscurity or forgetfulness.
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take a dig at someone
The idiom "take a dig at someone" means to make a sarcastic or critical comment about someone in a mocking or teasing manner. It implies intentionally aiming to provoke or mock someone through verbal remarks or jabs.
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dig up one's tomahawk
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dig up tomahawk
Similar spelling words for DIG
- disa,
- dike,
- big,
- dish,
- dicks,
- dizzy,
- die,
- din,
- disk,
- disc,
- rig,
- Did,
- dix,
- dip,
- wig,
- dog,
- disco,
- digs,
- diggs,
- diaz,
- diazo,
- dixie,
- diez,
- dice,
- pig,
- jig,
- dug,
- DISCH,
- dim,
- dias,
- dika,
- diss,
- fig,
- dis-,
- Diego,
- dishy,
- dicky,
- dicey,
- dis,
- dick.
Conjugate verb Dig
CONDITIONAL PERFECT
I
would have dug
you
would have dug
he/she/it
would have dug
we
would have dug
they
would have dug
CONDITIONAL PERFECT PROGRESSIVE
I
would have been digging
you
would have been digging
he/she/it
would have been digging
we
would have been digging
they
would have been digging
CONDITIONAL PRESENT
I
would dig
you
would dig
he/she/it
would dig
we
would dig
they
would dig
CONDITIONAL PRESENT PROGRESSIVE
I
would be digging
you
would be digging
he/she/it
would be digging
we
would be digging
they
would be digging
FUTURE
I
will dig
you
will dig
he/she/it
will dig
we
will dig
they
will dig
FUTURE CONTINUOUS
I
will be digging
you
will be digging
he/she/it
will be digging
we
will be digging
they
will be digging
FUTURE PERFECT
I
will have dug
you
will have dug
he/she/it
will have dug
we
will have dug
they
will have dug
FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
will have been digging
you
will have been digging
he/she/it
will have been digging
we
will have been digging
they
will have been digging
IMPERATIVE
we
Let´s dig
PAST
I
dug
we
dug
you
dug
he/she/it
dug
they
dug
PAST CONTINUOUS
I
was digging
you
were digging
he/she/it
was digging
we
were digging
they
were digging
PAST PARTICIPLE
dug; digged
PAST PERFECT
I
had dug
you
had dug
he/she/it
had dug
we
had dug
they
had dug
PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
had been digging
you
had been digging
he/she/it
had been digging
we
had been digging
they
had been digging
PRESENT
I
dig
you
dig
he/she/it
digs
we
dig
they
dig
PRESENT CONTINUOUS
I
am digging
you
are digging
he/she/it
is digging
we
are digging
they
are digging
PRESENT PARTICIPLE
digging
PRESENT PERFECT
I
have dug
you
have dug
he/she/it
has dug
we
have dug
they
have dug
PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
have been digging
you
have been digging
he/she/it
has been digging
we
have been digging
they
have been digging
PRESENT SUBJUNCTIVE
he/she/it
dig
SIMPLE PAST
I
dug; digged
you
dug; digged
he/she/it
dug; digged
we
dug; digged
they
dug; digged
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