excavation
Meaning: The systematic process of digging and removing earth to uncover buried remains, structures, or artefacts; also, any large-scale digging operation.
Archaeological excavation is a meticulous, scientific process involving careful digging, recording, and preservation. Each layer of soil (stratum) is documented, as the position of finds in relation to other objects and layers provides crucial dating evidence. In construction, excavation refers to the preparatory digging of foundations, trenches, or tunnels. The verb is 'excavate' and a site being dug is called an 'excavation site' or simply a 'dig.'
Examples
- The excavation of the Roman villa revealed a remarkably well-preserved mosaic floor. 对这座罗马别墅的发掘揭示了一面保存极为完好的马赛克地板。La excavación de la villa romana reveló un suelo de mosaico extraordinariamente bien conservado.そのローマ時代の別荘の発掘により、極めて保存状態の良いモザイク床が発見されました。로마 시대 별장의 발굴을 통해 보존 상태가 매우 양호한 모자이크 바닥이 발견되었다.
- Archaeological excavations at Stonehenge have been ongoing for over a century. 巨石阵的考古发掘已持续了一个多世纪。Las excavaciones arqueológicas en Stonehenge se llevan a cabo desde hace más de un siglo.ストーンヘンジでの考古学的発掘は一世紀以上にわたって続けられています。스톤헨지에서의 고고학적 발굴은 한 세기 이상 계속되어 왔다.
- The construction company began excavation work for the new underground car park. 建筑公司开始了新地下停车场的挖掘工作。La empresa constructora comenzó las obras de excavación del nuevo aparcamiento subterráneo.建設会社は新しい地下駐車場の掘削工事を開始しました。건설 회사는 새 지하 주차장을 위한 굴착 공사를 시작했다.
Pronunciation
Usage Guide
Context: academic, professional
Tone: neutral
Origin & History
From Latin excavatio (a hollowing out), from excavare (to hollow out), combining ex- (out) and cavare (to hollow), from cavus (hollow). Entered English in the 17th century.
Cultural Context
Era: Modern
Generation: All ages
Social background: Universal
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