fertilizer

noun

fer·​til·​iz·​er ˈfər-tə-ˌlī-zər 

: one that fertilizes

specifically : a substance (such as manure or a chemical mixture) used to make soil more fertile

Examples of fertilizer in a Sentence

We only use organic fertilizer in our gardens.

They use chemical fertilizers on their lawn.

Recent Examples on the Web

Her top tips include planting nectar-rich annuals like lantanas and zinnias, using lightweight potting soil, feeding plants with long-lasting fertilizer, and mixing blooms with eye-catching foliage. —Steve Bender, Southern Living, 6 July 2025

Each box is fitted with a coconut fiber liner that keeps your plants, fertilizer, and soil in place, while creating ideal conditions for water drainage and air circulation to prevent root rot and keep plants healthy. —Maggie Horton, People.com, 2 July 2025

This is the effect of the fertilizer combined with the perfect spring growing conditions. —Chris McKeown, The Enquirer, 2 July 2025

Use a soilless potting mix and supplement with slow-release and soluble fertilizers throughout the growing season. —Paul Cappiello, The Courier-Journal, 2 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1661, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing fertilizer

• complete fertilizer

Rhymes for fertilizer

• advertiser
• analyser
• analyzer
• appetizer
• atomizer
• breathalyzer
• colonizer
• crystallizer
• digitizer
• equalizer
• localizer
• merchandiser

Kids Definition

fertilizer

noun

fer·​til·​iz·​er ˈfərt-ᵊl-ˌī-zər 

: a substance (as manure or a chemical) used to make soil produce larger or more plant life