1. shovel test - Noun
2. shovel test - Verb
shovel test (plural shovel tests)
(archaeology) An excavation unit of small extent and shallow depth, made quickly with a shovel or trowel to determine whether archeologically significant material is present below the ground surface.
shovel test (third-person singular simple present shovel tests, present participle shovel testing, simple past and past participle shovel tested)
(archaeology) To examine a site or area using one or more small excavation units.