Navvy

[nævi]

(n.) Originally, a laborer on canals for internal navigation; hence, a laborer on other public works, as in building railroads, embankments, etc.

Editor: Manuel

n. a labourer—originally a labourer on a navigation or canal: a machine for digging out earth &c.—called also French navvy:—pl. Navv′ies.

Edited by Elsie