© 2026 Sloth Lingo. Learn easy. Lounge wisely.

dethatch

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /dɪˈθætʃ/

KK: /dɪˈθætʃ/

intransitive verb
Definition

To remove dead grass and other debris from the surface of a lawn to promote healthy growth.


Example

In spring, it's important to dethatch your lawn to ensure it gets enough air and nutrients.


Tense Forms

Past: dethatched

Past Participle: dethatched


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever thought about how to dethatch your lawn?
Sloth B
Not really, what does that involve?
Sloth A
It's basically removing the dead grass to help it grow better.
Sloth B
That sounds useful! I should probably try to dethatch mine this weekend.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
scarify
rake
aerate
Antonyms
thatch
cover
sustain
transitive verb
Definition

To remove dead grass and other debris from a lawn to improve its health and allow air and water to reach the soil.


Example

In spring, it's a good idea to dethatch your lawn to promote healthy growth.


Tense Forms

Past: dethatched

Past Participle: dethatched


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever thought about how to dethatch your lawn?
Sloth B
Not really, what does that even mean?
Sloth A
It’s basically removing the dead grass to help the soil breathe better.
Root Explanation

Dethatch → It is formed from "de-" (meaning removal or reversal) and "thatch" (from Old English *þæc*, meaning a covering or roof made of straw or similar materials). The word "dethatch" means to remove the thatch or covering from a surface, typically in gardening or lawn care.

Memory Tip

Think of 'removing' ('de-') the 'covering' ('thatch') from a lawn — that's what dethatch means.

Visually Confused Words
deathwatch
rethatch
thatch
detach
thatchy
Is this page helpful?
Sloth B
Oh, that sounds useful! Maybe I should try to dethatch mine this weekend.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
scarify
rake
cultivate
Antonyms
sow
plant
nourish