dung-fork

dung-fork

A farmer uses a dung-fork to move manure into a wheelbarrow.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • A farm tool for handling manure: A "dung-fork" is a specialized fork or pitchfork used to lift, move, or spread animal dung (manure) in agricultural settings. It typically has several sturdy tines designed to hold and transport heavy, wet, or clumped organic waste.
Usage Examples
  • (The tool was used to physically lift and remove the waste from the barn floor.)
  • (The tool was cleaned after use in handling organic matter.)
Advanced Usage

  • "to wield a dung-fork": to use the tool for its intended purpose, often implying hard, manual labor.

    • He spent the morning wielding a dung-fork in the cattle shed. (He worked hard shoveling manure with the tool.)

  • "dung-fork handle": the long wooden or metal shaft of the tool that provides leverage.

    • The dung-fork handle had splintered from years of heavy use. (The handle was damaged due to repeated strain.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Dung (n): animal excrement used as fertilizer.

    • The dung from the cows enriches the soil. (The manure improves soil quality.)

  • Fork (n): a tool with prongs used for lifting or pitching.

    • He used a garden fork to turn the soil. (A similar tool for digging.)

  • Manure fork (n): a synonym for dung-fork, often used interchangeably.

    • The manure fork was left leaning against the barn wall. (Another name for the same tool.)
Synonyms
  • Manure fork: a fork specifically designed for handling manure.
  • Barn fork: a fork used in barns for moving animal waste.
  • Pitchfork: a broader term for a long-handled fork with tines, though a dung-fork is a specific subtype.
Related Idioms

  • "To hit the dung-fork" (rare, informal): to begin a messy or unpleasant task.

    • It's time to hit the dung-fork and clean out the pigsty. (To start the dirty job of removing manure.)

  • "As useful as a dung-fork in a snowstorm" (rare, humorous): describing something completely inappropriate or ineffective for a given situation.

    • A smartphone is as useful as a dung-fork in a snowstorm when you're trying to dig a car out of a drift. (The tool is useless for the task at hand.)