Mulch Meaning
/mʌlt͡ʃ/Definition, CEFR level B2, pronunciation, examples, and quiz.
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Definition
nounAny material used to cover the top layer of soil to protect, insulate, or decorate it, or to discourage weeds or retain moisture.
verbTo apply mulch.
Sentence Examples
He was spreading mulch in the flower beds.
I've been lopping trees all afternoon and shredding them into mulch for the garden.
CEFR Practice Quiz
Gardeners spread wood chips as ____ to keep the soil moist and prevent weeds from growing.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
The gardener spread a thick layer of organic ____ around the base of the young fruit trees to help retain moisture in the soil during the summer.
Word Origin & History
Probably from Middle English melsche, molsh (“soft”), from Old English melsċ, milisċ (“mellow; mild; sweet”, literally “honeyed”), probably from Proto-Germanic *mili (“honey”). Compare Icelandic milska (“a honeyed beverage”).
Literary Quotations & Historical Citations
"An interim report by investigators from the Rail Accident Investigation Branch found extensive evidence of crushed leaf mulch on the railhead at many sites on the approach to Salisbury Tunnel Junction."
— 2022 March 9, Paul Clifton, “Network News: Salisbury crash: slippery rails caused by autumn leaves”, in RAIL, number 952, page 12:
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CEFR Practice Quiz
Gardeners spread wood chips as ____ to keep the soil moist and prevent weeds from growing.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
The gardener spread a thick layer of organic ____ around the base of the young fruit trees to help retain moisture in the soil during the summer.