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Definition of subsoil

subsoil

/ˈsʌb.sɔɪl/
sub · soil
Plural:subsoils
•
Past Simple:subsoiled
•
Past Participle:subsoiled
•
Present Participle:subsoiling
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subsoil Lexical Profile

subsoil Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The layer of earth or soil immediately beneath the surface topsoil, consisting largely of minerals and clay with relatively little organic matter.

Example

"Deep-rooted trees are able to draw moisture and trace minerals directly from the dense clay subsoil."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• verb

1

To plow or break up the earth beneath the topsoil without turning it over to the surface, typically to improve drainage and root penetration.

Example

"The farmer decided to subsoil the compacted field in autumn so that winter rains could drain properly."

Synonyms
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• Nearby Words

subsist
subsistence
subskill
subsoil
subsonic
subsonically
subspecialist

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 18th century by combining the Latin-derived prefix 'sub-' (meaning 'under') with 'soil' (from Old French 'soile', ultimately from Latin 'solium' or 'solum' meaning 'ground').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Subsoil. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/subsoil
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