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

In August 2025, scientists were able to use the gene editing tool CRISPR to make wheat crops produce their own fertilizer, according to a study published in Plant Biotechnology Journal. —Devika Rao, TheWeek, 15 Jan. 2026

If the ground isn't frozen, give early flowering plants a boost by applying and watering with a granular fertilizer. —Barbara Gillette, The Spruce, 15 Jan. 2026

Lisa Steinkopf, founder of The Houseplant Guru, uses a water-soluble fertilizer when fertilizing her pothos. —Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 15 Jan. 2026

Consider using a slow-release fertilizer on your peace lily or mix compost into the soil around the peace lily’s roots. —Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Jan. 2026

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