subsoil

[ suhb-soil ]

noun

1. the bed or stratum of earth or earthy material immediately under the surface soil.

subsoil

/ ˈsʌbˌsɔɪl /

noun

1. 1. Also calledundersoil the layer of soil beneath the surface soil and overlying the bedrock
   2. ( as modifier )

      a subsoil plough

verb

1. tr to plough (land) to a depth below the normal ploughing level and so break up the subsoil

subsoil

/ sŭb′soil′ /

1. In an ABC soil, the B horizon. The term was formerly used to mean the layer of earth below the humus or surface soil.

Derived Forms

• ˈsubˌsoiler, noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of subsoil¹

First recorded in 1790–1800; sub- + soil ¹

Example Sentences

For the subsoil of the whole country is very rich, as trees of immense size and height readily demonstrate.

From Project Gutenberg

The physical characters of the subsoil are often of much importance to the soil itself.

From Project Gutenberg

In such cases the benefits of subsoil ploughing and deep ploughing are conspicuous.

From Project Gutenberg

The subsoil should be drained four or six feet below the cellar floor, and this floor is to be laid in concrete and cement.

From Project Gutenberg

On a subsoil of rocky character the foundation course or even the first and second courses might be unnecessary.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• clay
• coast
• dirt
• dust
• gravel
• land
• mud
• sand
• shore
• surface
• terrain
• turf