topsoil

noun

top·​soil ˈtäp-ˌsȯi(-ə)l How to pronounce topsoil (audio)
Synonyms of topsoilnext
: surface soil usually including the organic layer in which plants have most of their roots and which the farmer turns over in plowing

Examples of topsoil in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Our gardens suffer from annual topsoil loss, reducing productivity. Charles Selle, Chicago Tribune, 6 May 2026 Use a topsoil that is at least 40% organic matter (compost). Nan Sterman, San Diego Union-Tribune, 2 May 2026 Ground covers can suppress weeds, protect topsoil from erosion and drought, and fill empty gaps between stepping stones, pavers, and barren ground. Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 1 May 2026 When the plant dies back, those nutrients return to the topsoil, acting like a natural fertilizer. Ryan Brennan may 1, Miami Herald, 1 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for topsoil

Word History

First Known Use

1733, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of topsoil was in 1733

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Topsoil.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/topsoil. Accessed 13 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

topsoil

noun
top·​soil -ˌsȯil How to pronounce topsoil (audio)
: surface soil usually including the rich upper layer in which plants have most of their roots and which the farmer turns over in plowing

More from Merriam-Webster on topsoil

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster