soil
UK: sɔɪl | US: sɔɪl
n. the top layer of the earth's surface, consisting of organic matter, minerals, and gases, in which plants grow
vt. to make something dirty or stained
vi. to become dirty or stained
The word "soil" originates from the Old French "soill" or "suil," meaning "ground" or "earth," which itself derives from the Latin "solum," meaning "base" or "bottom." Over time, its meaning expanded to include the fertile top layer of earth where plants grow, as well as the act of making something dirty—likely due to the association of dirt with staining or contamination.
The farmer tested the soil to ensure it was fertile enough for crops.
Be careful not to soil your clothes while gardening.
The spilled ink quickly soiled the white tablecloth.
Healthy soil is essential for sustainable agriculture.
Overuse of chemicals can degrade the quality of the soil.