trowel
trowel
UK[ˈtraʊəl]US[ˈtraʊəl]
n
a small hand tool with a flat, pointed blade, used for applying and spreading mortar or plaster.
n
a small hand tool with a curved blade, used in gardening for lifting plants and scooping soil.
Etymology
the word 'trowel' entered english in the 14th century from the old french 'truele', which itself descended from the latin 'trulla', a diminutive of 'trua', meaning a stirring spoon or ladle. this etymological path reflects the tool's primary function as a small implement for scooping and spreading. the semantic focus shifted from a general kitchen or ceremonial ladle in ancient times to specialized masonry and gardening tools in modern usage, while retaining the core concept of a handheld scooping device. its form has remained remarkably stable from latin through french to modern english.
Analysis
the word is a simplex form. it is derived from the latin 'trulla', meaning a small ladle, scoop, or trowel.
Examples
the mason used a trowel to apply a smooth layer of mortar to the bricks.
she carefully used a garden trowel to transplant the seedlings.
a good quality trowel is an essential tool for any serious gardener.