Definition

Noun: - The United States Department of Agriculture: The federal executive department of the U.S. government responsible for developing and executing federal laws related to farming, forestry, rural economic development, and food. Its mission includes supporting agricultural producers, promoting agricultural trade, ensuring food safety, protecting natural resources, and ending hunger.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The USDA issued new guidelines for organic food labeling.
  • Farmers can apply for loans and disaster assistance through the USDA.
  • The report published by the USDA shows an increase in crop yields this season.

Advanced Usage

• "USDA-certified": A label indicating that a product (like organic food or meat) has been inspected and meets specific standards set by the department.
  • Look for the USDA-certified organic seal on the produce.
• "USDA Prime": The highest quality grade given to beef by the department based on marbling and age.
  • This steakhouse is famous for serving only USDA Prime beef.

Variants and Related Words

• Agricultural Department (n): A less common, formal name for the USDA.
• Secretary of Agriculture (n): The title of the head of the USDA, a member of the President's cabinet.

Synonyms

• Agriculture Department: The official full name is the United States Department of Agriculture.
• Department of Agriculture: A common shortened reference.

Related Phrases

• USDA zone (n): Refers to the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map, which divides North America into zones based on average annual minimum winter temperature, used by gardeners and growers.
  • Check the USDA zone for your area before planting those perennials.

Noun

1. the federal department that administers programs that provide services to farmers (including research and soil conservation and efforts to stabilize the farming economy); created in 1862