A silo is a structure designed for storing bulk materials, commonly used in agriculture and industry. It is often a tall, cylindrical container made of materials such as steel, concrete, wood, or plastic. Silos store a variety of bulk materials like grain, animal feed, plastic granules, cement, coal, food products, and sawdust. In agriculture, silos are mainly used to store grains or fermented feed called silage. They protect the stored material from moisture, pests, and spoilage, helping to maintain quality and nutritional value. Silos can be vertical or horizontal and come in various forms—tower silos (tall and cylindrical), bunker silos (horizontal trenches lined with concrete), and bag silos (large plastic tubes for temporary storage). The operation usually involves filling the silo from the top and removing the bulk material from the bottom. Modern silos often include features like aeration systems to regulate temperature and humidity and advanced monitoring to keep the stored material in good condition. Etymologically, the term "silo" comes from the Ancient Greek word "σίρος" (sirós), meaning a pit for holding grain. Besides the agricultural context, "silo" can also refer to isolated groupings or divisions within organizations that function separately and hinder communication. Overall, silos are essential for efficient, secure storage and management of bulk materials in many sectors.