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

Feed your lychee sparingly from spring through summer using a low-nitrogen, organic fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants, such as an evergreen or citrus blend, to support healthy growth without burning the roots. — Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 2 Aug. 2026

The third could emerge from late 2026 into the 2027 harvest cycle, as fertilizer costs work through planting decisions and yields. — Ingmar Rentzhog, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026

Feed foliage plants on the patio or porch every other week or use a slow-release fertilizer. — Tom MacCubbin, The Orlando Sentinel, 1 Aug. 2026

Pull the mulch back and sprinkle dry fertilizer onto the soil around the drip lines, then hand water to help the fertilizer penetrate into the soil. — Nan Sterman, San Diego Union-Tribune, 1 Aug. 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
• digitizer
• equalizer
• localizer
• merchandiser
• moisturizer

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