soil1

 
Pronunciation: /sɔɪl/

noun

[mass noun]
  • the upper layer of earth in which plants grow, a black or dark brown material typically consisting of a mixture of organic remains, clay, and rock particles: blueberries need very acid soil [count noun]: rotary cultivators are ideal, particularly on difficult soils
  • the territory of a particular nation: the stationing of US troops on Japanese soil

Derivatives

soil-less

adjective

Origin:

late Middle English: from Anglo-Norman French, perhaps representing Latin solium 'seat', by association with solum 'ground'