desert

word

/ˈdɛzɝt/
DEZ-urt (noun), di-ZURT (verb)
/ˈdɛzɜːt/
DEZ-uht (noun), di-ZUHT (verb)

Definition

A desert is a very dry area of land where there is very little rain and not many plants or animals can live.

Usage & Nuances

Usually a countable noun: 'a desert', 'the desert'. Common collocations: 'hot desert', 'dry desert', 'cross the desert', 'desert climate'. Do not confuse it with 'dessert' (sweet food), which is pronounced differently.

Example Sentences

The camel lives in the desert.

basic

It is very hot in the desert during the day.

basic

I knew we were in the desert when I couldn't see a single tree for miles.

natural

People imagine the desert as empty, but it's full of life if you look closely.

natural

We packed extra water because driving through the desert can be dangerous.

natural

They walked across the desert for two days.

basic