topsoil

noun

top·​soil ˈtäp-ˌsȯi(-ə)l How to pronounce topsoil (audio)
Synonyms of topsoilnext
: surface soil usually including the organic layer in which plants have most of their roots and which the farmer turns over in plowing

Examples of topsoil in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Dumping a load of topsoil under a tree will cover the roots but contribute to tree rot and death. Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 26 Feb. 2026 Possible ingredients range from sand and bark to some mix of topsoil and compost. Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Feb. 2026 Avoid products labeled for outdoor use, such as topsoil, compost, and raised bed soil, as well as soil taken directly from the yard. Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 23 Feb. 2026 Cosey has welcomed archaeological teams from Mississippi State University to her property, digging for the stories buried beneath the topsoil. Joe Sills, Forbes.com, 30 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for topsoil

Word History

First Known Use

1733, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of topsoil was in 1733

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Cite this Entry

“Topsoil.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/topsoil. Accessed 7 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

topsoil

noun
top·​soil -ˌsȯil How to pronounce topsoil (audio)
: surface soil usually including the rich upper layer in which plants have most of their roots and which the farmer turns over in plowing

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