grab bucket

noun phrase

Meaning

A mechanical device, often attached to a crane or excavator, consisting of two hinged jaws that open and close to grasp and lift loose materials such as sand, gravel, coal, or refuse.

Examples

  • The construction crew used a large grab bucket to clear the debris from the demolition site.
  • Workers loaded the ship's cargo of iron ore using an enormous grab bucket that scooped up tons at a time.

Synonyms: clamshell bucket, grapple, excavator attachment