Peat

/piːt/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A brown, soil-like material characteristic of wetlands, formed from the decayed remains of mosses and other plant life, commonly found in bogs and marshes.

The gardener decided to use peat as an organic amendment for improving the soil's moisture retention.

A type of fuel made from compressed peat, used especially in some parts of Europe.

In Ireland, many people still use peat bricks as a traditional type of fuel for heating.

Natural deposits of peat that can be harvested for use in gardening or agriculture.

The company sources its peat from sustainable bogs to minimize environmental impact.

Etymology

Old Irish 'pét', meaning 'peat' or 'moss'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

peat bog

A wetland area where peat has accumulated over centuries.

cut peat

To harvest peat from a bog for use as fuel.

peat fire

A fire that burns peat, often producing a characteristic smoke.

Related Words

mire

A swampy or boggy area where peat may accumulate.

moss

A type of plant often found growing in peat-rich environments.

Slang Meanings

To be in a bad situation or predicament.

I'm in a real peat trying to figure this out.

Something not worth the trouble or effort.

That project turned out to be a peat, wasting everyone's time.