General
dead shovel
What does dead shovel mean?
Grim slang for the seasonal presentation of an out-of-shape person suffering a fatal cardiac event while shoveling snow.
"First big snowfall and the ER already had two dead shovels."
Origin
North American winter emergency-medicine slang.
Frequently asked questions
What is a 'dead shovel'?
It is grim slang for someone, often out of shape, who suffers a fatal heart attack while shoveling snow.
Why is it a seasonal term?
The presentation spikes after big snowfalls when people exert themselves clearing snow, so ERs see it in winter.
Where is 'dead shovel' used?
It is North American winter emergency-medicine slang.
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