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Tilling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tilling

[ˈtɪlɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

agriculture

The preparation of land for growing crops by loosening or stirring the soil, especially with a plow.

Synonyms

cultivation, farming, plowing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tilling

Refers to the action of preparing the soil for planting by turning it over. It's often used in the context of gardening or small-scale farming.

  • After tilling the garden, we planted the spring vegetables.
  • Tilling the soil helps to aerate it and improve drainage.
plowing

Specifically refers to the act of using a plow to turn over the upper layer of soil. This term is more commonly associated with larger-scale agricultural operations and is often one of the first steps in soil preparation.

  • The farmer spent the morning plowing the field.
  • Plowing helps to bury weeds and crop residues.
cultivation

Relates to the broader concept of growing crops and often encompasses a range of agricultural practices including fertilizing, watering, and pest control. Used in both small-scale and commercial farming contexts.

  • The cultivation of rice requires a lot of water.
  • They focus on the organic cultivation of vegetables.
farming

A general term for the practice of agriculture, including crop-growing and livestock-raising. It's broadly used for all types of agricultural activities from small gardens to large commercial farms.

  • Farming is essential for providing food to our communities.
  • They decided to invest in sustainable farming practices.

Examples of usage

  • The farmer spent the whole day tilling the fields.
  • Tilling is an essential step in agriculture to ensure good crop growth.
Context #2 | Verb

gardening

Preparing the soil by breaking it up, turning it over, or stirring it up to promote plant growth.

Synonyms

cultivate, dig, plow.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tilling

Commonly used to describe the general act of preparing soil for planting by turning it over.

  • We spent the afternoon tilling the garden to get it ready for the spring planting
cultivate

Refers to the broader practice of improving soil conditions and growing plants, often involving multiple steps from preparing the soil to fostering plant growth.

  • Farmers cultivate the land to produce a variety of crops
  • She has been cultivating her vegetable garden for years
plow

Implies using a large tool or machinery to cut, lift, and turn over soil, typically in large agricultural fields.

  • The farmer used a tractor to plow the large field
  • Before sowing seeds, they plowed the land thoroughly
dig

Specifies the act of using a tool to break and move soil, often for planting small plants or creating a hole.

  • He had to dig a hole to plant the new tree
  • They spent the morning digging in the flower beds

Examples of usage

  • She tilled the garden before planting the seeds.
  • Tilling the soil helps to aerate it and improve drainage.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Agricultural History

  • Tilling dates back thousands of years, with evidence found in ancient civilizations like Mesopotamia, where it was crucial for growing crops.
  • Early farmers used simple wooden plows pulled by animals to till the soil, which significantly improved their harvests.
  • With the introduction of metal tools, tilling became more efficient, leading to larger agricultural communities.

Modern Practices

  • Today, many farmers use tractors equipped with advanced tilling equipment, allowing for faster and more precise soil preparation.
  • There are different tilling methods, including conventional, reduced, and no-till farming, each affecting soil health and crop yields differently.
  • Organic farming often favors reduced or no-till methods to maintain soil structure and sustain biodiversity.

Environmental Impact

  • Excessive tilling can lead to soil erosion, which can harm ecosystems and reduce the land's ability to grow food.
  • Conversely, proper tilling practices can increase soil aeration and water retention, promoting healthier plant growth.
  • Research shows that no-till farming is beneficial for carbon sequestration, helping to absorb CO2 from the atmosphere.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, tilling represents the start of the planting season, celebrated in festivals that honor agricultural traditions.
  • Metaphorically, tilling is often used in literature and sayings to symbolize preparing oneself for growth or new opportunities.
  • Community gardening initiatives often emphasize tilling as a communal activity, fostering social ties and shared responsibility.

Scientific Understanding

  • Tilling improves soil structure by breaking up compacted layers, allowing roots to penetrate more easily and access nutrients.
  • Soil microorganisms play a vital role during the tilling process, as they help decompose organic materials, making nutrients available for plants.
  • Studies have shown that proper tilling can reduce the need for chemical fertilizers by enhancing soil fertility naturally.

Origin of 'tilling'

The word 'tilling' originates from the Old English word 'tyllan', meaning to plow or cultivate the soil. It has been used in agriculture for centuries to prepare the land for planting crops and promote healthy growth. Tilling techniques have evolved over time, but the basic concept remains the same - to work the soil for optimal plant growth.

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

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,080, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.