seedbed

[ seed-bed ]

noun

1. land prepared for seeding.
2. a plot of ground for seedlings.
3. a place of development; source.

seedbed

/ ˈsiːdˌbɛd /

noun

1. a plot of land in which seeds or seedlings are grown before being transplanted
2. the place where something develops

   the seedbed of discontent

Word History and Origins

Origin of seedbed¹

First recorded in 1650–60; seed + bed

Example Sentences

At the same time, New York’s Off Broadway nonprofits, long essential seedbeds for many of the nation’s most acclaimed playwrights, are shedding staff, programming and even real estate.

From New York Times

While thinning can reduce fuels, burning also provides ecological benefits not provided by thinning alone, like creating growing space and receptive seedbeds, promoting germination of seeds stored in soil and increasing nutrient availability.

From Seattle Times

“The idea that we have a seedbed under the 51 miles of the concrete of the L.A. River,” says Bon, “is a powerful imaginary for ecological regeneration.”

From Los Angeles Times

He cuts the stems of water hyacinths in the lake near his house, lets the pile stew in the sun, and shapes it into long, wide seedbeds on top of the water.

From New York Times

Not unless the Middle East and northern and eastern Africa — seedbeds of the faith — have suddenly been re-categorized as part of Europe without our notice.

From Washington Post