landfill

American  

[land-fil] / ˈlændˌfɪl /

noun

1. a low area of land that is built up from deposits of solid refuse in layers covered by soil.

2. the solid refuse itself.

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verb (used without object)

1. to create more usable land by this means.

verb (used with object)

1. to make (an area of land) by means of a landfill.

2. to use in a landfill.

   to landfill millions of tons of garbage each year.

landfill British  

/ ˈlændˌfɪl /

noun

1. 1. disposal of waste material by burying it under layers of earth

   2. ( as modifier )

      landfill sites

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landfill Scientific  

/ lănd′fĭl′ /

1. A disposal site where solid waste, such as paper, glass, and metal, is buried between layers of dirt and other materials in such a way as to reduce contamination of the surrounding land. Modern landfills are often lined with layers of absorbent material and sheets of plastic to keep pollutants from leaking into the soil and water.

2. Also called sanitary landfill

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Etymology

Origin of landfill

An Americanism dating back to 1940–45; land + fill

Example Sentences

Sereen Banna said the partners of Downtown LA Law Group called her “Erin Brockovich” for her work helping hundreds sue over noxious fumes spewing out of a landfill in northern Los Angeles County.

From Los Angeles Times

Damaged or discarded panels often end up in landfills or with unauthorised recyclers, where unsafe methods can release toxic materials.

From BBC

Each year, an estimated £42m worth of unwanted presents are thrown away in the UK, with some ending up in landfill.

From BBC

Instead, it will send the milk- and food-encrusted packaging to the landfill.

From Los Angeles Times

Yet thrifting has been growing in popularity, even beyond the increasing numbers who value the treasure hunt and want to help the environment by keeping clothes and other items out of landfills.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• depot
• junkyard