Pronunciation: [bˈʌdə͡l] (IPA) 
The word buddle is a verb that means to wash or classify ore, coal or minerals by size. It is spelled as /ˈbʌd.l̩/ in IPA, with the primary stress on the first syllable 'budd' and a schwa sound in the second syllable '-le'. The letter 'u' in the first syllable produces a short vowel sound 'ʌ' as in 'cup'. The final consonant 'd' is pronounced with a very short release and a slight, brief closure of the vocal cords.
Buddle is a noun that typically refers to a device used in mining operations to separate valuable minerals or metals from their impurities. It is commonly employed in the process of mineral or ore dressing. The term can also be used as a verb, in which case it means to process or treat minerals or metals using a buddle.
In its noun form, a buddle is typically a trough or a shallow rectangular tank filled with water. The ore or mineral mixture is introduced into the buddle, and as the water flows through, it gradually separates the valuable elements from the waste material. This separation is achieved due to the varying specific gravity of the minerals, which causes the heavier and more valuable particles to settle to the bottom of the buddle, allowing the waste material to be carried away by the flowing water.
The verb form of buddle encompasses the process of utilizing a buddle to separate minerals or metals. It involves the careful addition of the mixture into the buddle, monitoring the flow of water, and often manual agitation or stirring to assist in the separation process.
Overall, a buddle is an essential tool in the mining industry, playing a vital role in the mineral processing stage by efficiently extracting valuable minerals or metals from their associated waste materials.
• To wash ore.
• Among miners, a wooden frame used for washing ore.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "buddle" has its origins in the English language, derived from the Old English word "bodil" or "bodel". The term originally referred to a vessel or trough used in mining operations to separate valuable metal ores from the surrounding rock or waste material. Over time, the word "buddle" became associated specifically with a type of shallow, rectangular trough used for this purpose. The etymology of the term beyond Old English is uncertain, but it likely has Germanic roots. The word "buddle" saw usage predominantly in mining contexts and has now largely fallen out of general usage.
