topsoil
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈtɒp.sɔɪl/
KK: /ˈtɑpˌsɔɪl/
noun
Definition
The top layer of soil that is rich in nutrients and where most plants grow.
Example
Farmers often test the topsoil to ensure it has the right nutrients for crops.
Conversation
I need to buy some topsoil for my garden this weekend.
That sounds like a good plan! What are you planning to plant?
I want to get some flowers and maybe some vegetables too.
Nice! The right topsoil will make a big difference in how they grow.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
humus
loam
dirt
Antonyms
subsoil
bedrock
clay
transitive verb
Definition
The uppermost layer of soil that is rich in nutrients and supports plant growth.
Example
Farmers often need to replace the topsoil to ensure healthy crops.
Tense Forms
Past: topsoiled
Past Participle: topsoiled
Conversation
Did you hear that they are going to topsoil the community garden next week?
Really? That sounds like a big project!
Yeah, they want to remove the old soil and replace it with fresh topsoil.
Root Explanation
Topsoil → It is formed from "top" (from Old English "top", meaning the highest part or surface) and "soil" (from Old French "soil", meaning ground or earth). The word "topsoil" refers to the uppermost layer of soil, which is the highest part of the ground.
Memory Tip
Think of the 'top' as the highest layer of 'soil' — that's why topsoil is the uppermost layer of earth.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.