soil
soil Lexical Profile
soil Game Scores & Validity
• noun
The upper layer of earth in which plants grow, typically consisting of a mixture of organic remains, clay, and rock particles.
"The farmer added compost to enrich the soil before planting the spring crops."
The territory or land of a particular nation.
"The exiled leader vowed that he would one day return to his native soil."
• verb
To make something dirty, especially with dirt, stains, or waste.
"Be careful not to soil your new white dress while painting the living room."
To involuntarily defecate or urinate in one's clothing.
"The terrified toddler was so frightened by the loud thunder that he soiled himself."
To tarnish, sully, or bring discredit to a person's reputation.
"The scandalous accusations were enough to soil the politician's legacy permanently."
• Rhymes for soil
Word Origin & Etymology
The word has two distinct origins. The noun referring to earth comes from Anglo-Norman 'soil', rooted in Latin 'solum' (ground). The verb meaning 'to make dirty' derives from Old French 'soillier' (to splatter with mud), which likely traces back to Latin 'suculus' (little pig).
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.