Thesaurus results for HUMUS

humus

noun

Definition of humus

as in loam

a brown or black material in soil that is formed when plants and animals decay

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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.

Recent Examples of humus Water the pile gently, or simply wait for rain to jump-start the process of turning organic debris into nutrient-rich humus. — Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Nov. 2025 In flower beds, a light layer acts as natural mulch, insulating roots and conserving soil moisture while decomposing into rich humus over time. — Special To The Denver Post, Denver Post, 5 Oct. 2025 Brunch might mean a humus bowl layered with lamb and pickled onion, or a shakshuka made with black lime tomato stew. — Rai Mincey, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2025 Unless the compost is fully broken down into humus, this incorporation will also work organic matter into the soil, which helps with aeration and further supports microorganisms. — Anthony Reardon, Kansas City Star, 25 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for humus

Recent Examples of Synonyms for humus

Noun

Loamy and sandy loams are the ideal soil type.

— Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 31 May 2026
Soil types include gravel and sedimentary loam closer to the river and volcanic rock distributed on the hillsides, a combination that adds distinct aromas, flavors, and minerality to the wines made here.

— Mike DeSimone, Robb Report, 9 Apr. 2026

Definition of loam

Noun

The topsoil may be dry, but below the surface, the soil may be moist.

— Lauren David, Southern Living, 12 July 2026
Once in the proper gear, Adams recommends removing the top two inches of topsoil from gardens, where the highest concentration of contaminants will settle after a fire.

— Christopher Buchanan, Los Angeles Times, 8 July 2026

Definition of topsoil

Noun

In honor of The Bear’s final season, Jono Pandolfi’s signature white and toasted clay dinnerware (featured in the fictional restaurant) is 15% off.

— Kate McGregor, Architectural Digest, 15 July 2026
Except at the French Open, where humans still inspect skid marks on the red clay, in tennis, the pretense of any agency over the machine is gone.

— Jay Caspian Kang, New Yorker, 14 July 2026

Definition of clay

Noun

Video from inside the apartment shows furniture, baby clothing, and other supplies covered in mud.

— Diego Mendoza, CNN Money, 16 July 2026
Situated between busier coastal destinations this idyllic town and its marshes will immediately transport you back to your early carefree days playing in creeks, digging in pluff mud, catching crawfish, and tossing cast nets.

— Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 16 July 2026

Definition of mud

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“Humus.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/humus. Accessed 21 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of humus

noun

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