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

Empty garbage bins and recycling from all rooms—not just the kitchen and bath—and don’t forget special receptacles like compost, diaper pails, and litter boxes. —Kristina McGuirk, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 July 2025

Biochar can be sequestered or blended into composts to enhance carbon content in soil, contributing to negative carbon emissions. —David Blekhman, Forbes.com, 9 July 2025

Verb

Plastics manufacturers say loosening the rules will encourage more people to compost. —Los Angeles Times, 4 July 2025

Over on the opposite side of the dwelling is a bathroom with shower, sink, and a composting toilet. —Adam Williams july 04, New Atlas, 4 July 2025

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