Fertilizer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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fertilizer

[ˈfɜːrtəlaɪzər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

agriculture

A substance that is added to soil to help plants grow. Fertilizers typically contain essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

Synonyms

compost, manure, plant food.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
fertilizer

Use 'fertilizer' when referring to a substance that is added to soil to help plants grow. It is a general term and can include both chemical and organic products.

  • The farmer used a special fertilizer to increase the yield of his crops.
  • Organic fertilizers are gaining popularity among environmentally-conscious gardeners.
plant food

Use 'plant food' when referring to a nutrient-rich mixture specifically formulated to support plant growth. This term is often used in a more consumer-friendly and informal context, especially for houseplants.

  • She added plant food to her potted plants to help them thrive indoors.
  • The nursery recommended a balanced plant food to keep the flowers blooming all summer.
manure

Use 'manure' when referring to animal dung used for fertilizing land. It is usually from farm animals like cows, horses, or chickens. It can come across as less refined and can have a negative connotation due to its smell.

  • The fields were fertilized with cow manure to enhance soil nutrient levels.
  • Using chicken manure can enrich the soil, but it must be well-composted to avoid burning plants.
compost

Use 'compost' when referring to decayed organic material used as a plant fertilizer. It is typically made from household waste like vegetable scraps, grass clippings, and leaves.

  • They started a compost pile in their backyard to reduce waste and enrich their garden soil.
  • Adding compost to the garden each spring can improve soil structure and fertility.

Examples of usage

  • Farmers use fertilizer to improve crop yields.
  • The use of organic fertilizers is becoming more popular among environmentally conscious gardeners.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'fertilizer'

The concept of using fertilizers to improve plant growth dates back to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, who used animal manure to enhance soil fertility. The modern understanding of fertilizers and their chemical compositions developed in the 19th century with the discovery of the role of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in plant nutrition.


See also: fertileness, fertility, fertilization, fertilize, infertile, infertility.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,598 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.