excavation

noun

ex·​ca·​va·​tion ˌek-skə-ˈvā-shən How to pronounce excavation (audio)
Synonyms of excavationnext
1
: the action or process of excavating
2
: a cavity formed by cutting, digging, or scooping
excavational adjective

Examples of excavation 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.
The results were validated with field measurements from excavations and drilling, along with simulations confirming the radar signals originated beneath the debris. Samantha Mathewson, Space.com, 1 May 2026 Earlier excavations of the area conducted by the museum found evidence of industrial-scale iron extraction. Michelle Del Rey, USA Today, 30 Apr. 2026 McKiddy, as well as Charlotte's daughters, attended an excavation in May 2025 in Fremont County near Thurman, Iowa, in which forensics teams and cadaver dogs searched for the bodies and wells McKiddy described. Jessica Sager, PEOPLE, 30 Apr. 2026 The Battle of Copenhagen is a defining moment in Danish history, and played a part in shaping the nation's identity — making the excavation especially significant for the country. Andrea Margolis, FOXNews.com, 29 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for excavation

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Latin excavātiōn-, excavātiō, from excavāre "to hollow out, excavate" + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of verbal action

First Known Use

circa 1611, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of excavation was circa 1611

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Excavation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/excavation. Accessed 4 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

excavation

noun
ex·​ca·​va·​tion ˌek-skə-ˈvā-shən How to pronounce excavation (audio)
1
: the act or process of excavating
2
: a hollowed-out place formed by excavating

Medical Definition

excavation

noun
ex·​ca·​va·​tion ˌek-skə-ˈvā-shən How to pronounce excavation (audio)
1
: the action or process of excavating
2
: a cavity formed by or as if by cutting, digging, or scooping
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