Origin: Latin suffix -tion
Cultivation has 6 different meanings across 1 category:
socialization through training and education to develop one's mind or manners
"her cultivation was remarkable"
(agriculture) production of food by preparing the land to grow crops (especially on a large scale)
"The massive agricultural project focused entirely on the cultivation of wheat across hundreds of acres."
a highly developed state of perfection; having a flawless or impeccable quality
"they performed with great polish"
"I admired the exquisite refinement of his prose"
"almost an inspiration which gives to all work that finish which is almost art"
the act of raising or growing plants (especially on a large scale)
"The farmer's dedication to the cultivation of wheat ensured a successful harvest for the entire valley."
The art or act of cultivating; improvement of land for or by agriculture
"The farmer's dedication to the cultivation of his fields ensured a bountiful harvest despite the harsh winter."
In plain English: Cultivation is the act of growing plants by preparing and caring for soil to help them thrive.
"The farmer dedicated his entire life to the cultivation of rice in that valley."
Usage: Use this term to describe the agricultural process itself rather than the resulting crops. It often appears in formal contexts discussing soil management, whereas "growing" is more common in casual speech.
The word entered English from the Old French term cultivation, which itself derived from a Late Latin root meaning "to till" or "prepare for sowing." Its modern sense reflects this original agricultural purpose as it traveled through Middle French into our language.