compost

1 of 2

noun

com·​post ˈkäm-ˌpōst 

especially British -ˌpäst

1

: a mixture that consists largely of decayed organic matter and is used for fertilizing and conditioning land

2

: mixture, compound

compost

2 of 2

verb

composted; composting; composts

transitive verb

: to convert (a material, such as plant debris) to compost

compostable

ˈkäm-ˌpō-stə-bəl 

adjective

composter

ˈkäm-ˌpō-stər 

noun

Examples of compost in a Sentence

Verb

We compost leaves in our backyard.

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Make Compost and Mulch at Home Annually enriching soil with compost and mulch reduces the need for fertilizer and boosts the health of edible plants. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 Feb. 2026

For this approach, spread a 1/2- to 1-inch layer of finished compost over the soil, then plant seeds directly into the compost. —Michelle Mastro, Martha Stewart, 25 Feb. 2026

Verb

The ship also composts food waste and has reduced its reliance on single-use plastics. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 25 Feb. 2026

Students eat lunch family-style in their classrooms, serving one another and learning practical skills like composting and recycling. —Keri Heath, Austin American Statesman, 23 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Noun

Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin compostum, from Latin, neuter of compositus, compostus, past participle of componere

First Known Use

Noun

1587, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

1829, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing compost

• compost heap
• compost pile

Kids Definition

compost

noun

com·​post

ˈkäm-ˌpōst

: a mixture largely of decayed matter of once living things (as plant debris) used for fertilizing and conditioning land