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.
Consider a couple having to repeat multiple stimulation cycles due to a male factor infertility issue, as today’s commercial technology does not support testing of an individual sperm before fertilizing an egg. Aya Spencer, Forbes, 24 Sep. 2024 Oregano in the herb garden won’t need fertilizing besides a light application of compost in early spring. Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Sep. 2024 In turn, their dung may have fertilized the growth of certain types of algae in the lake and thereby altered the local ecosystem. Sharon Udasin, The Hill, 30 Oct. 2024 Use the grounds to fertilize your home garden or, for an extra fee, Mill will pick them up for you. Jared Lindzon, TIME, 30 Oct. 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 28 Nov. 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
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!