digger

noun

dig·​ger ˈdi-gər How to pronounce digger (audio)
Synonyms of diggernext
1
a
: one that digs
b
: a tool or machine for digging
2
Digger dated, offensive : an Indigenous person of the western United States from a culture (such as that of the Paiute) that traditionally dug roots for food
3
or Digger chiefly Australia and New Zealand : an Australian or New Zealand soldier

Examples of digger in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
There are a few other wasps that nest in the ground, commonly referred to as digger wasps. — Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 29 May 2026 Weigh them down further by placing rocks or mounds of soil along the edges to deter would-be diggers from lifting or getting around them. — Nashia Baker, Martha Stewart, 25 June 2026 Many solitary wasps dig nesting chambers in sandy soils, like the cicada killer and the great golden digger wasps. — Pamm Cooper, Hartford Courant, 9 May 2026 Bulldozers and a John Deere digger sit behind the house and near the concrete pad. — Sacbee.com, 25 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for digger

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of digger was in the 15th century

Rhymes for digger

See All Rhymes for digger

Browse Nearby Words

digged
digger
Digger pine
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Cite this Entry

“Digger.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/digger. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on digger

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for digger

Nglish: Translation of digger for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about digger

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