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Tilled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tilled

[tɪld ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

agriculture

To till means to prepare and cultivate the soil for planting crops. This process involves turning over the soil, breaking up clumps, and adding nutrients.

Synonyms

cultivate, plow, work.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tilled

Similar to 'plow', but generally used to describe the condition of the soil after it has been prepared for planting.

  • The garden was freshly tilled and ready for planting.
  • They tilled the soil in preparation for spring planting.
plow

Specifically when speaking about the act of turning over the soil using a tool or machine before planting. Can also be used in a figurative sense to mean moving forcefully through something.

  • The farmer used a tractor to plow the field.
  • She had to plow through a lot of paperwork before the meeting.
cultivate

When referring to the act of preparing land for growing crops or plants, and also used metaphorically for developing skills or relationships.

  • Farmers cultivate the soil before planting seeds.
  • He spent years cultivating his public speaking skills.
work

Can be used broadly to refer to any type of labor, including agricultural. It is more general and less specific.

  • They had to work the field from dawn till dusk.
  • She enjoys working in her garden on weekends.

Examples of usage

  • The farmers tilled the fields in preparation for planting corn.
  • Before sowing the seeds, the gardeners tilled the soil to ensure proper growth.
Context #2 | Verb

history

To till can also refer to the act of working hard or laboring diligently.

Synonyms

labour, toil, work.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tilled

Used specifically in agriculture to describe the preparation of soil for planting crops. Implies turning over the soil.

  • The farmer tilled the field before planting the seeds.
  • Tilled soil is essential for a good harvest.
work

A general term for performing tasks or duties, can refer to both physical and mental activities. It is the most commonly used term.

  • I have to go to work every day from 9 to 5.
  • She did her work quickly and efficiently.
toil

Implies strenuous, exhausting work, often with a negative connotation of suffering or difficulty over a long period.

  • The miners toiled deep underground for hours.
  • Despite years of toil, he never achieved his dreams.
labour

Refers to physical or mental work, usually emphasizing hard work and effort. Often used in economic contexts or to describe workers in general.

  • The construction workers' labour was evident in the newly built structure.
  • She went into labour and delivered a healthy baby.

Examples of usage

  • She tilled the land with sweat and determination to provide for her family.
  • The pioneers tilled the rugged land to establish their settlement.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Agricultural Science

  • Tilling helps aerate the soil, allowing roots to grow better and enhancing water absorption.
  • There are different tilling methods such as conventional tillage, no-till, and reduced tillage, each impacting soil health differently.
  • Over-tilling can lead to soil erosion and degradation, making sustainable practices important for farmers.

Historical Context

  • Tilling has been a crucial part of agriculture since the Neolithic Revolution, which marked the transition from hunter-gatherers to farmers.
  • Ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and Mesopotamians developed advanced tilling techniques, leading to surpluses in food production.
  • The introduction of the plow significantly increased efficiency in tilling, transforming agricultural practices throughout history.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, the act of tilling symbolizes hard work, dedication, and the beginning of new life, reflecting agricultural rituals.
  • Folklore often includes references to tilled land as a sign of prosperity and good fortune, especially in agrarian societies.
  • Literature often uses the image of tilled fields to represent hope and future growth, emphasizing the cycle of life.

Environmental Impact

  • Tilling impacts biodiversity since it disrupts the habitat of soil organisms, essential for nutrient cycling.
  • Conservation tillage practices, which minimize soil disturbance, help preserve soil structure and reduce carbon emissions.
  • Organic farmers often utilize cover crops alongside tilling to improve soil health and prevent erosion.

Origin of 'tilled'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Tilled' comes from the Old English word 'tilian,' which means to plow or cultivate land.
  • The use of the word has been recorded since the 14th century, showing long-standing agricultural practices.
  • Related terms include 'tillage,' which refers to the agricultural preparation of soil.

The word 'tilled' originated from the Old English word 'tyllan', meaning to plow or cultivate. The concept of tilling the land has been essential in agriculture for centuries, dating back to ancient civilizations where manual labor was used to prepare the soil for planting. Tilling remains a fundamental practice in modern farming techniques to promote healthy crop growth and improve yields.

See also: till, tillage, tiller, tillers, tilling, until.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,183, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.