The spelling of the word "manure" can be perplexing because it doesn't follow the typical pronunciation of the "u" sound. However, the phonetic transcription can clarify the proper way to say it: /məˈnjʊr/. The first syllable, "ma", is pronounced like "muh". The "n" is followed by a "y" sound, creating the "nyu" in the second syllable. The ending "ure" is pronounced like "yur", but some may say it as "ur". With proper pronunciation, manure can help improve soil fertility for plants.
Manure is a substance that consists of decomposed organic matter, such as animal waste, that is used as a fertilizer for plants and crops. It is formed through a natural process called decomposition, where the organic material undergoes chemical and biological reactions that break it down into simpler compounds. Manure is commonly produced by livestock, such as cows, pigs, and chickens, as well as other domesticated animals.
The primary purpose of using manure as a fertilizer is to supply essential nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, to the soil. These nutrients are vital for plant growth and development. Manure also improves the soil structure and enhances its ability to retain moisture, thus benefiting plant roots and overall plant health.
In agriculture, manure can be applied to fields either in its raw or composted form. Raw manure is directly collected from animals and spread onto fields. Composted manure, on the other hand, is a more stable and matured form, which undergoes a controlled decomposition process that reduces potential pathogens and odors.
It is important to manage manure properly to prevent negative environmental impacts, such as water pollution. Appropriate storage, handling, and application techniques are necessary to ensure the efficient and responsible use of manure as a natural fertilizer.
• Any matter or substance added to the soil to fertilise it.
• To apply any fertilising matter to land; to fertilise.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "manure" derives from the Middle English word "manouren" which means "to cultivate land". This Middle English term comes from the Old French word "manovrer" which means "to work the land" or "to till". It further traces back to the Latin word "manu operare" which translates to "to work with one's hands". The word "manure" started being specifically associated with animal dung as a means to fertilize the soil in the 15th century.