| n. | 1. | That portion of the soil formed by the decomposition of animal or vegetable matter. It is a valuable constituent of soils. |
| Noun | 1. | humus - partially decomposed organic matter; the organic component of soil |
| 2. | humus - a thick spread made from mashed chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice and garlic; used especially as a dip for pita; originated in the Middle East |