hydroponics

noun

hy·​dro·​pon·​ics ˌhī-drə-ˈpä-niks How to pronounce hydroponics (audio)
plural in form but singular in construction
: the growing of plants in nutrient solutions with or without an inert medium (such as soil) to provide mechanical support
hydroponic adjective
hydroponically adverb

Did you know?

Hydroponics, also known as aquaculture or tank farming, began as a way of studying scientifically the mechanisms of plant nutrition. Hydroponically grown plants may have no solid material under them at all; instead, their roots often simply hang in water with a rich mix of nutrients dissolved in it. The principal advantage to hydroponics is the savings from reduced labor costs, since it's generally carried on in enclosed areas and the irrigation and fertilizing are done mechanically. Peppers, cucumbers, and various other vegetables are produced hydroponically in huge quantities.

Examples of hydroponics in a Sentence

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The LetPot Max hydroponics growing system features flexible trays that can be used as a 21-pod or two-pod system for growing both small and large plants. Nora Colomer May Earn A Commission If You Buy Through Our Referral Links. This Content Was Created By A Team That Works Independently From The Fox Newsroom., FOXNews.com, 13 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for hydroponics

Word History

Etymology

hydr- + -ponics (as in geoponics agriculture)

First Known Use

1937, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hydroponics was in 1937

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Cite this Entry

“Hydroponics.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hydroponics. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

hydroponics

noun
hy·​dro·​pon·​ics ˌhī-drə-ˈpän-iks How to pronounce hydroponics (audio)
: the growing of plants in nutrient solutions
hydroponic adjective

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