humus Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun partially decomposed organic matter; the organic component of soil
  2. noun a thick spread made from mashed chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice and garlic; used especially as a dip for pita; originated in the Middle East
    humous; hummus; hoummos; hommos.

WordNet


Hu"mus noun
Etymology
L., the earth, ground, soil.
Definitions
  1. That portion of the soil formed by the decomposition of animal or vegetable matter. It is a valuable constituent of soils. Graham.

Webster 1913