noun

mulch

muhlch

Mulch (noun) means a layer of material, such as bark, straw, or compost, spread over soil to protect it, keep in moisture, or block weeds. Example: “Spread a thick layer of mulch around the rose bushes.”

noun

A layer of material, such as bark, straw, or compost, spread over soil to protect it, keep in moisture, or block weeds.

"Spread a thick layer of mulch around the rose bushes."

"Wood-chip mulch helps the garden retain water in summer."

verb

To cover soil with mulch, or to turn material into mulch.

"We mulched the flower beds before winter."

"The lawnmower mulches the grass clippings as it cuts."

How to use mulch

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA protective layer spread over garden soil, or the act of applying it.

Common pairings

spread mulch mulch the garden wood-chip mulch

Word forms

mulched past tense, mulches plural, mulches singular

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Spread a thick layer of _____ around the rose bushes.

Etymology

Probably from an Old English word meaning "mellow" or "soft," related to a root meaning "honeyed."

Origin: Old English

Rhymes for mulch

zilch belch welch gulch

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Frequently asked questions

What does “mulch” mean?

The word “mulch” means a layer of material, such as bark, straw, or compost, spread over soil to protect it, keep in moisture, or block weeds. In plain terms, a protective layer spread over garden soil, or the act of applying it.

How do you pronounce “mulch”?

“Mulch” is pronounced muhlch (/mʌlt͡ʃ/ in IPA).

How do you use “mulch” in a sentence?

Here is “mulch” used in a sentence: “Spread a thick layer of mulch around the rose bushes.”

What part of speech is “mulch”?

Depending on how it is used, “mulch” can be a noun and a verb.

Where does the word “mulch” come from?

The word “mulch” comes from Old English. Probably from an Old English word meaning "mellow" or "soft," related to a root meaning "honeyed.".

How many meanings does “mulch” have?

“Mulch” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a layer of material, such as bark, straw, or compost, spread over soil to protect it, keep in moisture, or block weeds.