loam

[/loʊm/]
nounmasculinepl: loams
terra de aluvião / lama fértil / solo argiloso
1. A fertile soil of clay and sand containing humus; a type of soil composed of a mixture of sand, clay, and organic matter
The farmer planted his crops in rich loam that produced excellent yields.
O fazendeiro plantou suas colheitas em terra de aluvião fértil que produzia excelentes colheitas.
2. In traditional crafts, a mixture of clay, sand, and straw used in molding or casting
The foundry worker shaped the metal using a loam mold.
O fundidor moldou o metal usando uma forma de lama.
Loam is highly valued in Brazilian agriculture, particularly in regions like the Amazon and interior of São Paulo state. The term is most commonly used among farmers and agricultural scientists when discussing soil composition and fertility. In the USA, loam is frequently referenced as the ideal garden soil, representing the balance between water retention and drainage.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
soilearthhumustopsoilclaysediment
Antonyms / Antônimos
rockstonesand (pure)bedrock

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
terra de aluvião / solo argiloso
Most common term used in agricultural contexts
São Paulo
barro fértil / lama
Used in both agricultural and construction contexts
Minas Gerais
terra preta / aluvião
Often refers to the rich dark soil found in the region
Portugal
terra fértil / lodo
Portuguese European equivalent, less commonly used

Related Words

soil compositionagriculturesedimentalluviumhumusarable landcultivationearthwork

Related Idioms & Phrases

loamy soil
rich loam
loam-based
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