fertilize

verb

fer·​til·​ize ˈfər-tə-ˌlīz 

fertilized; fertilizing

transitive verb

: to make fertile: such as

a

: to apply a fertilizer to

fertilize land

b

: to cause the fertilization of

fertilizable

ˈfər-tə-ˌlī-zə-bəl 

adjective

Examples of fertilize in a Sentence

A single sperm fertilizes an egg.

Bees fertilize plants as they collect nectar from flowers.

He fertilizes the lawn every year.

The soil is so rich there is no need to fertilize.

Recent Examples on the Web

Mow at the proper height for your grass type, water deeply when needed, and fertilize according to your lawn’s specific needs. — Jessica Safavimehr, Southern Living, 22 July 2026

Furthermore, many plants sold at nurseries are already fertilized or growing in potting mix with slow-release nutrients, says Steinkopf. — Colleen Sullivan, Martha Stewart, 21 July 2026

The rare conception occurs after a single egg is fertilized and then divides four times. — Sam Gillette, PEOPLE, 20 July 2026

This means watering and fertilizing your grass on the proper schedule, as well as ensuring that the soil is properly aerated. — David Beaulieu, The Spruce, 16 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1621, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing fertilize

• cross-fertilize

Rhymes for fertilize

• advertise
• aggrandize
• alibis
• alkalies
• alkalis
• amortize
• amplifies
• analyse
• analyze
• anywise
• authorize
• butterflies

Kids Definition

fertilize

verb

fer·​til·​ize ˈfərt-ᵊl-ˌīz 

fertilized; fertilizing

: to make fertile: as

a

: to cause the fertilization of

also : to unite with in the process of fertilization

a sperm fertilizes an egg

b

: to apply a fertilizer to

fertilize land