Definition

To prepare and use land for growing plants or crops, or to help something develop and grow.

Example

Farmers cultivate the land to produce food for the community.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I want to cultivate a better garden this year.

That's a great idea! What are you planning to grow?

I think I'll try to cultivate some tomatoes and herbs.

Those sound delicious! I can help you with that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cultivate → It is formed from "colere" (meaning to till or cultivate) and "-ate" (a suffix used to form verbs). The word "cultivate" means to prepare and use land for crops or gardening, essentially to till the soil for growth.

Memory Tip

Think of 'tilling' the land ('colere') to help plants grow — that's what cultivate means.

Visually Confused Words