preta
Americannoun
Etymology
Origin of preta
First recorded in 1810–15; from Sanskrit: literally, “gone forth, gone before, dead,” equivalent to prefix pra- “forth” + participle ita- “gone”
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The fact that scientists are finding intact biochar in the Amazon’s ancient terra preta suggests that it’s happening.
From Salon • Mar. 7, 2025
In the Amazon, ancient people intentionally boosted soils with charcoal, creating terra preta, or “dark earth” areas that remain nutrient-rich today.
From Science Magazine • Dec. 12, 2023
The Amazon’s terra preta is much darker—black or dark brown—more fertile, and holds much more organic carbon than most of the region’s soils.
From Science Magazine • Sep. 19, 2023
The treated waste can then be collected and made into terra preta at a professional communal composting site.
From Nature • Jun. 13, 2012
One of the biggest patches of terra preta is on the high bluffs at the mouth of the Tapajos, near Santarem.
From "1491" by Charles C. Mann
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
