Meaning & Definition of word "Fallow"

Fallow

/ˈfæl.oʊ/

noun:

  • 1. A period during which land is left unplanted to allow it to rest.
    • Example: The field has gone through several fallow cycles to ensure better yields in the future.

adjective:

  • 1. Land that is plowed and harrowed but left unseeded during a growing season.
    • Example: The farmer decided to leave a portion of his fields fallow to restore soil nutrients.
  • 2. Inactive or unproductive; not in use.
    • Example: After years of being fallow, the research project finally received funding to continue.

Etymology

Old English 'fealg', meaning 'to become fallow or unplowed'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

fallow ground:

Land that has been plowed but not seeded.

fallow period:

A time during which a field is not cultivated or a person is not productive in a certain activity.

Related Words

cultivate:

To prepare and use land for crops or gardening.

defer:

To postpone or delay.

Slang Meanings of fallow