The word "turf" is spelled with the letters T-U-R-F, and has a phonetic transcription of /tɜːrf/. The first letter, "T", is pronounced with an unvoiced dental plosive sound. The second letter, "U", is pronounced with a lax mid-central vowel sound. The third letter, "R", is pronounced with a voiced alveolar approximant sound. The fourth letter, "F", is pronounced with an unvoiced labiodental fricative sound. Together, these sounds form the word "turf", which refers to grass and soil held together by roots.
Turf, in its simplest sense, refers to a surface or area of ground that is covered with grass or vegetation. It is commonly used to describe a portion of land with a specified purpose or affiliation.
In the context of sports, it often refers to the playing surface of a game or event. For example, a football field or a tennis court can be referred to as a turf. In this usage, it specifically signifies the area where the game is played and highlights the importance of maintaining the playing surface to ensure fair and safe competition.
Another meaning of turf relates to ownership or control of a particular area. It can define the territory or domain of a person, group, or organization. This can include specific neighborhoods, cities, or even entire countries. The phrase "protecting one's turf" is often used metaphorically to describe defending one's rights or property.
Furthermore, turf can also refer to a group or clique with a particular interest or association. It suggests a specific niche or sector that is dominated by a particular group, often with political or economic implications. For instance, the business turf might refer to a competitive industry where multiple companies vie for market share.
Overall, the term turf encompasses various meanings, all centered around the idea of land, control, and association. Whether referring to a sports field, ownership, or a group's dominion, the concept of turf highlights the significance of specific areas or domains.
• To cover with turf or sod.
• Turfy.
• The grassy surface of untilled land; a detached piece of the surface of a grassy park or pasture hillside; sod; sward; the fibrous, black, earthy substance used as fuel; peat; race-ground; horse-racing.
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 "turf" has a complex etymology with various origins and meanings. Here are a few possible explanations:
1. Middle English: The term initially comes from Middle English "turf" or "torf", which refers to a piece or layer of peat or earth, specifically one that can be readily cut for fuel.
2. Old Norse: Another possibility is that "turf" has roots in Old Norse "torf", which also means peat or turf. The Viking invaders who settled in parts of England may have brought this word.
3. Latin: There is a Latin connection as well. The Latin word "turfis" means a lump of earth, peat, or sod. It might have influenced the Middle English usage.