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
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However, once the seeds are sown, lightly rake the area to get the seeds to blend in with the soil below or sprinkle fresh topsoil over the sown area. Michelle Mastro, The Spruce, 13 Mar. 2026 Fill low spots with high-quality topsoil. Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Mar. 2026 Never cut big roots or pile on topsoil—opt for groundcovers or call a pro if roots threaten structures. Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 4 Mar. 2026 Water runs off quickly, carrying seeds and topsoil with it. Hayleigh Evans, AZCentral.com, 2 Mar. 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 19 Mar. 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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