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Hydroponics: meaning, definitions and examples

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hydroponics

 

[ haɪˈdrɒpənɪks ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

agriculture science

Hydroponics is a method of growing plants without soil, using mineral nutrient solutions in a water solvent. This technique allows for efficient cultivation in limited spaces and controlled environments, and it can lead to faster growth and higher yields compared to traditional soil-based methods.

Synonyms

aquaponics, soilless culture, water culture

Examples of usage

  • Hydroponics is revolutionizing urban gardening.
  • Many farmers are now using hydroponics to maximize their crop production.
  • She decided to start a hydroponics business after attending a workshop.
  • Hydroponics requires careful monitoring of nutrient levels.

Etymology

The word 'hydroponics' is derived from the Greek words 'hydro', meaning water, and 'ponos', meaning labor. It was first used in the early 20th century by scientists who were exploring soil-less growing techniques. The modern concept of hydroponics emerged in the 1920s, with significant advancements made during World War II when it was utilized to grow food in limited spaces. Over the years, hydroponics has evolved, incorporating various systems that optimize plant growth and nutrient management, leading to the popularity of this method in commercial agriculture and home gardening.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,985, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.