The word "power shovel" is spelled using the phonetic transcription /ˈpɑʊər ˈʃʌvəl/. The "power" sound is represented by the /ˈpɑʊər/ phoneme, which includes the "ow" diphthong and is pronounced with stress on the first syllable. The "shovel" sound is represented by the /ˈʃʌvəl/ phoneme, which is pronounced with stress on the first syllable and includes the "sh" consonant sound. Together, these phonemes create the correct spelling of "power shovel".
A power shovel is a heavy-duty construction machine designed to excavate and move large quantities of earth, soil, or other materials. Also known as an excavator or digger, it consists of a sturdy chassis with a rotating platform upon which a large arm and bucket are mounted. The arm, commonly referred to as a boom, is operated by hydraulic cylinders, enabling it to extend, retract, and pivot in various directions. The bucket, also operated hydraulically, is attached to the end of the boom and is used to scoop and remove loose material.
Power shovels are widely used in construction, mining, and excavation projects due to their exceptional digging and lifting capabilities. They are particularly efficient for applications such as digging trenches, excavating foundations, loading soil into trucks, or clearing debris from a site. The size and power of a power shovel can vary greatly, with smaller models commonly used in urban areas or for lighter tasks, while larger models are employed in major construction projects and mining operations.
These machines are categorized by their digging capacity, which refers to the maximum amount of material they can remove in a single scoop. Power shovels feature tracks or wheels that allow for mobility and stability on different terrains, and some models incorporate additional features such as rotating cabs for improved maneuverability. Advanced power shovels may also include attachments like hammers, grapples, or rippers to enhance their versatility and adaptability for various tasks.
Overall, the power shovel is an indispensable piece of heavy machinery used in the construction industry to perform excavating and loading operations with great efficiency and precision.
The word "power shovel" is a compound word composed of "power" and "shovel". "Power" comes from the Old French word "povoir", which traces back to the Latin word "potere", meaning "to be able" or "to have power". "Shovel" originated from the Middle English word "schovele", derived from the Old English word "scofl" and Old High German word "scufla", both meaning "shovel". Therefore, the etymology of the word "power shovel" can be understood as a combination of the concept of strength and capability (power) with the tool used for digging or scooping (shovel).