n. 1 the upper layer of earth in which plants grow, consisting of disintegrated rock usu. with an admixture of organic remains (alluvial soil; rich soil). 2 ground belonging to a nation; territory (on British soil). soil mechanics the study of the properties of soil as affecting its use in civil engineering. soil science pedology. soilless adj. soily adj.
[ ME f. AF, perh. f. L solium seat, taken in sense of L solum ground ]