First Known Use: before 12th century
Dictionary
1spade
noun \ˈspād\
Definition of SPADE
1
: a digging implement adapted for being pushed into the ground with the foot
2
: a spade-shaped instrument
— spade·ful \-ˌfu̇l\ noun
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Origin of SPADE
Middle English, from Old English spadu; akin to Greek spathē blade of a sword or oar
2spade
verb
spad·edspad·ing
Definition of SPADE
transitive verb
: to dig up or out or shape with or as if with a spade
intransitive verb
: to use a spade
— spad·er noun
First Known Use of SPADE
circa 1647
3spade
noun
Definition of SPADE
1
a plural but sing or plural in constr : the suit comprising cards marked with spades b : a black figure that resembles a stylized spearhead on each playing card of one of the four suits; also : a card marked with this figure
Origin of SPADE
Italian spada or Spanish espada broadsword; both from Latin spatha, from Greek spathē blade
First Known Use: circa 1598
SPADE Defined for Kids
spade
noun \ˈspād\
Definition of SPADE for Kids
: a digging tool with a long handle that has a flat blade which can be pushed into the ground with the foot
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