Soil

Definition

The term "soil" refers to the upper layer of earth where plants grow, composed of organic matter, minerals, and living organisms. It can also mean to make something dirty or stained.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /sɔɪl/
• Respelling: SOYL

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /sɔɪl/
• Respelling: SOYL

Etymology

The word "soil" originates from the Old French "sueil," meaning "ground" or "floor," which itself comes from the Latin "solum," meaning "ground, soil, or foundation." The verb sense of the word evolved separately, derived from Old English "sylan," meaning "to pollute."

Derivatives

• Soiled (adjective/verb)
• Soiling (noun/verb)
• Soilless (adjective)
• Topsoil (noun)
• Subsoil (noun)

Synonyms

• Dirt
• Earth
• Ground

Antonyms

• Sky
• Cleanliness
• None

Usage

The term "soil" is commonly used in agriculture, environmental science, and gardening. For example, "The farmer tested the soil for nutrients," or "The children soiled their clothes while playing."

Related Terms

• Compost: Decomposed organic material used to enrich soil.
• Humus: The organic component of soil formed by decomposed matter.
• Erosion: The process by which soil is removed from the ground by wind or water.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The upper layer of earth where plants grow:
  • Example: "The gardener prepared the soil for planting."
• Land or territory:
  • Example: "They defended their native soil from invaders."
• Material or substance that stains or dirties:
  • Example: "The soil on his hands came from working in the garden."

Verb

• To make dirty or stained:
  • Example: "The children soiled their shoes by running through the mud."
• To tarnish or spoil someone's reputation:
  • Example: "He refused to soil his name by engaging in dishonest practices."