fertilize

verb

fer·​til·​ize ˈfər-tə-ˌlīz How to pronounce fertilize (audio)
fertilized; fertilizing

transitive verb

: to make fertile: such as
a
: to apply a fertilizer to
fertilize land
b
: to cause the fertilization of
fertilizable adjective

Examples of fertilize in a Sentence

A single sperm fertilizes an egg. Bees fertilize plants as they collect nectar from flowers. He fertilizes the lawn every year. The soil is so rich there is no need to fertilize.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The log would be burned for 12 days, and ashes saved to fertilize spring crops. Mary Whitfill Roeloffs, Forbes, 18 Dec. 2024 In areas where soil pH is neutral or alkaline range, use an acid-forming azalea or camellia fertilizer to lower pH. Some products, such as Holly-tone, are designed specifically for fertilizing hollies. Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 11 Dec. 2024 Flying to Denmark for her treatment, James retrieved three eggs, two fertilized, and one embryo was implanted—now her 4-month-old son. Yaakov Katz, Newsweek, 27 Nov. 2024 Keep the soil moist and fertilize monthly or as instructed with a slow release product. Tom MacCubbin, Orlando Sentinel, 30 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for fertilize 

Word History

First Known Use

1621, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fertilize was in 1621

Dictionary Entries Near fertilize

Cite this Entry

“Fertilize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fertilize. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

fertilize

verb
fer·​til·​ize ˈfərt-ᵊl-ˌīz How to pronounce fertilize (audio)
fertilized; fertilizing
: to make fertile: as
a
: to cause the fertilization of
also : to unite with in the process of fertilization
a sperm fertilizes an egg
b
: to apply a fertilizer to
fertilize land
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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