BharatNotes Laterite
noun (also used attributively, e.g. "laterite soil"); related adjective: lateriticUsage in a UPSC answer
India's red and laterite soils, though notoriously low in nitrogen and humus, can be rendered cultivable through scientific liming and watershed management, illustrating how targeted soil interventions are central to any inclusive strategy for agrarian resilience and food security.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Word Family
lateritic (adj), lateritisation (n), laterize (v), laterization (n)
Root
Latin later = brick + -ite = mineral suffix; coined for soil that hardens like brick on exposure to air
Etymology
From Latin later ("brick") + -ite (mineral suffix), coined because the soil hardens like brick when exposed to air.
Memory Hook
Latin later = "brick": laterite literally bakes into red BRICKS in the tropical sun, so think "LATER-it hardens later into a brick."
Seen in UPSC Question Papers
- Prelims 2025 — Indian Geography
- Prelims 2018 — Soils
- Prelims 2015 — Soils
Real UPSC previous-year questions whose text uses “Laterite” — proof this word earns its place on your list.
Tip: press Alt+S to hear pronunciation
