Digger

/ˈdɪɡər/ noun

Definition

a person or machine that digs

Etymology

from 'dig' + agent suffix '-er'

Kelly Says

Diggers are just professional hole-makers!

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

In mining, construction, and archaeological contexts, 'digger' historically denoted male laborers; women diggers (including WWII 'Land Girls' and later archaeologists) were often called by different titles or erased entirely.

Inclusive Usage

Use 'digger' gender-neutrally; specify role if needed (e.g., 'archaeological digger'), but the term itself is now inclusive.

Inclusive Alternatives

["excavator","laborer","archaeologist"]

Empowerment Note

Women archaeologists and construction workers reclaimed 'digger' and other field roles; recognize their contribution to knowledge recovery.

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