Synonyms of humus

humus

noun

as in loam

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

Related Words

• loam
• topsoil
• clay
• mud
• earth
• sand
• mold
• gravel
• dirt
• gumbo
• kaolin
• silt
• dust
• ground
• sediment
• clod
• gley
• muck
• alluvium
• marl
• colluvium
• detritus
• loess
• subsoil
• gault
• blackland
• guck
• duff
• substratum
• shingle
• mull

Example Sentences

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