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.
Never cut big roots or pile on topsoil—opt for groundcovers or call a pro if roots threaten structures. Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 24 June 2026 The grinding process will leave a large mound of chips mixed with soil that will need to be removed and replaced with topsoil. Tim Johnson, Chicago Tribune, 21 June 2026 His ideal mix for vegetables is a combination of topsoil, compost, and lava fines, aka lava sand, which help oxygenate the soil. Johanna Silver, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 June 2026 At one point, there were so many visitors that the cemetery had to bring in a pickup truck full of topsoil to replace what was taken, per the Morning Call. Lynsey Eidell, PEOPLE, 19 June 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

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Cite this Entry

“Topsoil.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/topsoil. Accessed 29 Jun. 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

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