Fallow Meaning and Definition
Fallow
Pronunciation
/ˈfæloʊ/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A field or land that is ploughed and harrowed but left unseeded for a season, allowing the soil to rest and recover.
Examples
- The farmer decided to leave the north field fallow for the season to replenish the soil.
- Fallow land is often used as a conservation technique to protect wildlife habitats.
Synonyms
- Uncultivated
- Idle
Antonyms
- Cultivated
- Productive
Additional Information
Fallowing is an agricultural technique used to maintain soil fertility and reduce erosion. It allows the soil to replenish its nutrients and reduces the need for fertilizers. This technique has been used for centuries and is still popular today, particularly in organic farming practices.
Fallow land can also serve as a habitat for various wildlife species, providing a safe haven and food source. This has led to the use of fallow land as a conservation technique, particularly in areas where wildlife habitats are threatened.
Etymology
The word “fallow” originates from the Old English word “falw”, meaning “yellow” or “pale”, likely referring to the color of the unplanted soil.
Usage Notes
The term “fallow” is often used in agricultural contexts, but it can also be used more broadly to describe any period of rest or inactivity.
Cultural References
Fallow land has been depicted in literature and art throughout history, often symbolizing fertility, abundance, and the cyclical nature of life.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Fallow ground: an area or situation that is unproductive or unsuccessful.
Related Words or Phrases
- Cultivate
- Harvest
- Sow
Collocations
- Fallow land management
- Fallow period
Frequency of Use
The word “fallow” is moderately common in modern language, often used in agricultural and environmental contexts.