fertilizer

noun

fer·​til·​iz·​er ˈfər-tə-ˌlī-zər How to pronounce fertilizer (audio)
: 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
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
The brand operates as a carbon-neutral company, employing eco-friendly practices like sustainable farming and reusing production by-products as fertilizer. Rachel King, Forbes, 1 Nov. 2024 Fertilizer Camellia plants are heavy feeders and benefit from fertilizer applications during the growing season with an acid-forming azalea or camellia fertilizer. Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 31 Oct. 2024 The mixes usually come loaded with fertilizer to coax out some growth effects, which might mislead plant parents to think that inoculation is working, when really the fertilizer is doing the work. Shi En Kim, Smithsonian Magazine, 30 Oct. 2024 To reach their full potential, give them loamy soil, some aged manure, compost, or organic fertilizer, and regular watering. Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for fertilizer 

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1661, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fertilizer was circa 1661

Dictionary Entries Near fertilizer

Cite this Entry

“Fertilizer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fertilizer. Accessed 10 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

fertilizer

noun
fer·​til·​iz·​er ˈfərt-ᵊl-ˌī-zər How to pronounce fertilizer (audio)
: a substance (as manure or a chemical) used to make soil produce larger or more plant life
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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