turf (tɜːf
)
Definitions
noun
Word forms: plural, turfs, turves, tɜːvz
- the surface layer of fields and pastures, consisting of earth containing a dense growth of grasses with their roots; sod
- a piece cut from this layer, used to form lawns, verges, etc
- See the turf
- US slang the territory or area of activity over which a person or group claims exclusive rights
- an area of knowledge or influence ⇒
he's on home turf when it comes to music
- another term for peat1
- See go with the turf
verb
- (tr) to cover with pieces of turf
Word Origin
Old English; related to Old Norse torfa , Old High German zurba , Sanskrit darbha tuft of grassUsage examples
Mrs Malone took up the poker and stirred at the little turf fire burning beside her.
, Death of an Unknown Man (1987)Life off the turf has been, for the most part, free of hurdles.
India Today (1996)A veteran guide and wilderness traveller, Archer lived and paddled in northern Saskatchewan for 12 years and obviously knows her turf.
Globe and Mail (2003)The attitude is:'If we turf it out, somebody'll look after it.
Glasgow Herald (2001)The four riders were a half-mile away, swords drawn, cantering on the fine solid turf.
, VAGABOND (2002)