humus

noun

hu·​mus ˈhyü-məs 

ˈyü-

geology : a brown or black complex variable material resulting from partial decomposition of plant or animal matter and forming the organic (see organic entry 1 sense 1a(2)) portion of soil

Examples of humus in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Brunch might mean a humus bowl layered with lamb and pickled onion, or a shakshuka made with black lime tomato stew. — Rai Mincey, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2025

Try to plant it in fertile humus or neutral soils near water sources, and cut your plants back to ground level after first frost. — Nishaa Sharma, The Spruce, 27 May 2026

Water the pile gently, or simply wait for rain to jump-start the process of turning organic debris into nutrient-rich humus. — Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Nov. 2025

About 10 pounds of marinated chicken and about a half-pound of humus and cut tomatoes measured above safe temperatures. — Sacbee.com, 27 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin, earth — more at humble

First Known Use

1796, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

humus

noun

hu·​mus ˈhyü-məs 

ˈyü-

: a brown or black product of partial decay of plant or animal matter that forms the organic portion of soil

Medical Definition

humus

noun

hu·​mus ˈhyü-məs  ˈyü- 

: a brown or black complex variable material resulting from partial decomposition of plant or animal matter and forming the organic portion of soil