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soil

/sɔɪl/

When used as a noun, "soil" is typically uncountable (e.g., "there is soil on the floor"). However, it can be countable when referring to different types of soil (e.g., "the soils of this region vary"). As a verb, "soil" is more formal than saying "get dirty." It often implies that something clean has been spoiled or stained. In medical or caregiving contexts, the intransitive use of "soil" (referring to clothes) is a polite way to describe an accident with waste.

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon, Maya is cleaning up after a failed community garden project.
Jackson

Just read that 'regenerative soil' is the next big play. Total game changer.

Jackson
Maya
Maya

Get a grip, Jackson. It's just dirt.

💡
Jackson is attempting to frame basic agriculture as a financial investment opportunity (a 'play'), while Maya uses the idiom 'get a grip' to tell him to be realistic and stop being delusional about his crypto-style speculation.

Meanings

noun

The upper layer of earth in which plants grow, a mixture of organic remains, clay, and rock particles.

"The nutrient-rich soil is ideal for growing vegetables."

verb (transitive)

To make something dirty, especially with mud or stains.

"Be careful not to soil your new white dress while gardening."

verb (intransitive)

To become dirty; specifically, to discharge excrement in one's clothes.

"The infant had soiled its diaper during the long car ride."

Examples

The soil here is just perfect for these roses.

Ugh, don't let the dog soil the living room rug!

I need to test the soil pH before planting.

Look! You've managed to soil your entire shirt already!

Wait, is this soil too sandy for a vegetable garden?

Dammit, I just soiled my only good suit!

We should add some compost to the soil this spring.

Gross, did the baby soil themselves again?

Related Words

Last Updated: May 22, 2026Report an Error