A shovel is a type of tool, consisting of a broad blade with edges or sides turned up fixed to a medium length wooden handle terminating in a looping grasp unlike a spade, which has a longer handle without any specific grasp at the end. It is used for lifting or removing such loose substances as coal, gravel, sand, and the like.

The traffic signs warning of a Work zone or Construction site generally show a person operating a shovel.

Types of shovels:

  • Snow shovel
  • Baker's shovel
  • Steam shovel

For construction in playing on a sandy beach the shovel is the main tool (usually a toy version).