Spud

Definition of 'Spud'

In the oil and gas industry, the process of beginning to drill a well. Initially a larger drill bit is used to drill a surface hole, which is lined with casing and cement to protect groundwater. After the surface hole is completed, the main drill bit is inserted and the well is drilled to the total depth.

Can also be referred to as “spudding in”.

Investopedia explains 'Spud'

Drilling for oil and gas is a highly complex task involving sophisticated techniques and machinery. It often costs hundreds of thousands of dollars to drill even a simple well. More difficult wells can cost millions of dollars. The most expensive wells are often found offshore, where high-end drilling platforms can cost over $500,000 per day in times of peak demand.