Collins English-English Dictionary

dig [dɪg]

1. 1. vb [when tr, often foll by up] to cut into, break up, and turn over or remove (earth, soil, etc), esp with a spade

2. 2. vb to form or excavate (a hole, tunnel, passage, etc) by digging, usually with an implement or (of animals) with feet, claws, etc

   to dig a tunnel

3. 3. vb [often foll by through] to make or force (one's way), esp by removing obstructions

   he dug his way through the crowd

4. 4. vt. [tr; often foll by out or up] to obtain by digging

   to dig potatoes

   to dig up treasure

5. 5. vt. [tr; often foll by out or up] to find or discover by effort or searching

   to dig out unexpected facts

6. 6. vt. [tr; foll by in or into] to thrust or jab (a sharp instrument, weapon, etc); poke

   he dug his spurs into the horse's side

7. 7. vt. [tr; foll by in or into] to mix (compost, etc) with soil by digging

8. 8. vt. [tr] [informal] to like, understand, or appreciate

9. 9. vi. [intr] [US] [slang] to work hard, esp for an examination

10. 10. vi. [intr] [Brit] [informal] to have lodgings

    I dig in South London

11. 11. n the act of digging

12. 12. n a thrust or poke, esp in the ribs

13. 13. n a cutting or sarcastic remark

14. 14. n [informal] an archaeological excavation

15. 15. n See also dig in digs

16. 16. n [Etymology] C13 diggen, of uncertain origin