Fertilizer
/ˈfɜːrtəˌlaɪzər/
Definitions
A natural or artificial substance containing chemical elements that enhance the growth and productiveness of plants.
/ˈfɜːrtəˌlaɪzər/
A substance added to soil to improve plant growth.
The farmer spread fertilizer on the fields before planting.
💡 Simply: It's like giving plants vitamins! Fertilizer is food for plants. You put it on the soil to help plants grow bigger and stronger, just like how you eat food to grow.
👶 For kids: Something we put on plants' food so they can grow big and strong!
More Examples
Using the right type of fertilizer is crucial for healthy plant growth.
Organic fertilizers are often preferred for their environmental benefits.
How It's Used
"Farmers apply fertilizer to their crops to increase yields."
"I use a slow-release fertilizer in my garden to feed the plants over time."
"Excessive fertilizer runoff can pollute waterways."
From Middle English *fertiliseren*, from Medieval Latin *fertilizāre*, from Latin *fertilis* ('fruitful, fertile').
Used in agricultural contexts since the mid-19th century, initially referring to substances like manure and guano.
Memory tip
Think of a fertile land, the soil must be fertilized to keep producing food.