Question

The “Big Dig”

Answer 1

Answer:

D: a device used to dig holes.

Explanation:

The word excavator used in the passage is best defined by the phrase "a device used to dig holes".  The meaning of the verb excavate  is to make a hole in the ground by digging up soil . A "clamshell excavator" used during "this dig" is a large machine with a long arm and a container connected to it, and it is used for digging up the ground.

Answer 2

B. A device to level uneven surfaces
(they used concrete to level the ground)