French Conversation · Level 4
88 words
French word
humus
Pronunciation
IPA/ymys/
Meaning
- masculine nounhumus
Example
On ajoute de l'humus au potager chaque printemps.
We add humus to the vegetable garden every spring.
More examples
Les feuilles mortes contribuent à l'humus du jardin.
Dead leaves contribute to the garden's humus.
Core concept
A dark, crumbly reserve in the soil that holds moisture and steadily supports plant growth.
Similar words
compost: Decomposed household and garden waste used to enrich soil.
matière organique: Organic material from plant and animal remains that feeds soil processes and nutrient cycles.
engrais: A substance or product added to provide plants with essential nutrients.
terre: Soil at the ground surface that supports roots and holds water and nutrients.
Definition in French
Humus désigne la matière organique bien décomposée et stable du sol, sombre et friable, qui favorise la rétention d'eau et la fertilité sur le long terme.
Word origin
French humus comes directly from Latin humus, meaning earth or ground, and later became a soil science term for stable decomposed organic matter.
Usage tips
- Humus is masculine, so standard forms include l'humus, un humus, and de l'humus.