mulch/mʌlt͡ʃ/EtymologyProbably from Middle English melsche, molsh (“soft”), from Old English melsċ, milisċ (“mellow; mild; sweet”, literally “honeyed”), probably from Proto-Germanic *mili (“honey”). Compare Icelandic milska (“a honeyed beverage”).nounAny material used to cover the top layer of soil to protect, insulate, or decorate it, or to discourage weeds or retain moisture.“An organic mulch is a mulch made of natural substances such as leaves or grass clippings.”verbTo apply mulch.“Mulch your vegetable garden to retain moisture and keep weeds down.”To turn into mulch.“I decided to mulch the grass clippings.”