This week’s common Aussie slang expression has a few different meanings, the first of which is ‘a machine used for digging’. The second refers to ‘a person who mines for gold’ (this is short for gold digger). However, it’s a third definition that is the focus of this week’s post.
A ‘digger’ is an Australian soldier, especially one who fought in the First World War and was part of the infantry. Initially, ‘digger’ referred to both Australian and New Zealand soldiers, particularly those who formed the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC). Later, it became more closely associated with the Australian soldiers, while the New Zealand soldiers were called Kiwis.
Aussie and Kiwi soldiers on the Western Front were engaged in trench warfare which meant that a lot of their time was spent digging. Hence, the soldiers used the term ‘digger’ to describe each other and to highlight the experiences they shared and their camaraderie.
‘Digger’ is not a term I would use often, but it is commonly used in Australia. So, it’s good to be familiar with it and to know what it means.
Have regular lessons with Cathy. Check out the current prices (new students get 25% off), then get in touch to organise your free trial lesson.
Subscribe to the newsletter for news and special offers.
Glossary
the First World War – the war from 1914 to 1918 in which many countries fought
infantry – the part of an army that fights on foot
form – to make or be something
Corps – a military unit trained to perform particular duties
Kiwi [informal] – a person from New Zealand
Western Front – this was a stretch of land which was the decisive front during the First World War
trench – a deep hole dug by soldiers and used as a place from which they can attack the enemy while being hidden
warfare – the activity of fighting a war, often including the weapons and methods that are used
camaraderie – a feeling of friendliness towards people that you share an experience with
Leave a Reply