leaf mold

noun

1
: a compost or layer composed chiefly of decayed leaves
2
: a mold or mildew that affects foliage

Examples of leaf mold 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.
Shredded bark, cocoa hulls, pine straw, and leaf mold all hold water in the soil. Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 June 2025 Next, blanket the area with a 2-inch-thick layer of mulch, such as shredded bark, leaf mold, compost, or pine straw. Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1724, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of leaf mold was in 1724

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Leaf mold.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/leaf%20mold. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

leaf mold

noun
: a compost or layer composed chiefly of decayed leaves

More from Merriam-Webster on leaf mold

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

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