'compost' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'compositus,' where 'com-' meant 'together' and 'positus' meant 'placed.'

'compositus' transformed into the Old French word 'compost,' and eventually became the modern English word 'compost' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'a mixture of various substances,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a mixture of decayed organic material used to fertilize soil.'