bulldozer

/ˈbʊlˌdoʊzər/
nounIntermediate
⚙️Engineering
technical

A large, powerful vehicle with a wide, flat front blade used to push earth, rubble, or other materials in construction and demolition.

The bulldozer leveled the ground for the new building foundation.

A bulldozer is used to flatten uneven terrain.

💡

Originally a trademarked name by Caterpillar Inc., now used generically.

Collocations

operate a bulldozerto drive or control a bulldozerbulldoze an areato clear or demolish an area using a bulldozer

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

bulldoze throughphrasal verb
to forcefully push through something

💡Pro Tip

Brand vs. Generic

While 'bulldozer' is now generic, 'Caterpillar' remains a brand name.

Gold Rule

Safety First

Bulldozers are heavy machinery; always follow safety protocols when operating or working near them.

📖Word Origin

From 'bulldog' (referring to its strength) + 'dozer' (short for 'dozer,' from 'dozer blade'). Originally a trademark of Caterpillar Inc.

📝Usage Notes

The term is often used generically, though 'Caterpillar' remains a brand name. In informal contexts, 'dozer' is a common short form.

Word Breakdown

bull
strong, powerful
root
+
dozer
one who pushes or moves
root
English Dictionary