PERFECT GIFT IDEA!

The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

4.8

✔ Add 3,700 must-know words to your vocabulary.

✔ All-in-one: dictionary, thesaurus, & workbook.

✔ 632 pages, 147 lessons, 428 practical activities.

✔ Suitable for students & professionals of all ages.

✔ Ideal preparation for: TOEFL, TOEIC, IELTS, SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT, CPE, BEC, PTE, FCE

Buy on Amazon

Amazon Best Seller:

#1 Spelling & Vocabulary.

#1 Education TOEFL & TOEIC.

#1 Slang & Idiom Reference Books.

Transform Your Vocabulary Today!

arid

adjective

/ær ɪd/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of arid

Lacking sufficient moisture or rainfall, resulting in a dry and parched landscape.
"The arid desert stretched out as far as the eye could see, with no signs of vegetation."

Detailed meaning of arid

In this sense, arid describes regions with minimal precipitation, limited vegetation, and often characterized by desert-like conditions. Secondly, arid can describe something that is lacking in interest, excitement, or stimulation. It suggests a lack of liveliness, creativity, or variety, similar to a dry and barren landscape. Arid can also be used metaphorically to describe writing, speeches, or expressions that lack emotional depth or engaging qualities. Furthermore, arid can denote a lack of moisture or vitality in personal interactions or relationships, suggesting a lack of warmth, emotion, or connection. Overall, arid conveys the notions of dryness, lack of moisture, lack of interest, or lack of emotional depth depending on the specific context in which it is used.

Example sentences containing arid

1. The arid desert stretched endlessly beneath the scorching sun.
2. Arid climates often feature cacti and sand dunes.
3. Surviving in such an arid region requires water conservation.
4. Arid landscapes can be beautiful in their stark simplicity.
5. Farmers struggle to cultivate crops in arid regions.
6. The arid plains seemed devoid of all life.

History and etymology of arid

The adjective 'arid' finds its etymological origins in the Latin word 'aridus,' which means 'dry' or 'parched.' This Latin term was derived from 'ārēre,' which means 'to be dry' or 'to become dry.' The concept of aridity has been associated with regions that receive insufficient moisture or rainfall to sustain vegetation and maintain a moist environment. Over time, 'aridus' made its way into Old French as 'aride,' and eventually, it became 'arid' in Middle English. Thus, the etymology of 'arid' reflects its historical connection to dry and water-deprived landscapes, emphasizing the absence of essential moisture required to support life and maintain a hospitable environment.

Quiz: Find the meaning of the adjective arid:

answer1

answer2

answer3

answer4

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

Further usage examples of arid

1. This arid terrain is home to unique desert flora and fauna.
2. She longed for relief from the arid heat of summer.
3. The arid conditions make wildfires a constant threat.
4. An oasis in the arid wasteland provided a welcome respite.
5. The arid climate makes this a challenging place to live.
6. Arid deserts have a haunting, desolate beauty.
7. The arid soil made farming nearly impossible.
8. They embarked on a journey across the arid expanse.
9. The arid gusts of wind carried clouds of dust.
10. An arid climate can lead to water scarcity.
11. The arid plains shimmered in the midday heat.
12. The arid landscape was a stark contrast to the lush jungle.
13. The arid environment requires hardy, drought-resistant plants.
14. Animals in arid regions have adapted to conserve water.
15. The region's arid climate made it difficult for crops to thrive.
16. The arid conditions of the drought-stricken area led to a shortage of water.
17. Her presentation lacked creativity and was rather arid in terms of engaging content.
18. The arid landscape provided a stark contrast to the lush greenery of the neighboring valley.
19. The writer's arid prose failed to captivate the readers, leaving them disinterested.
20. The arid conversation at the dinner table made the evening feel dull and lifeless.
21. The scientist conducted research in an arid region to study the unique adaptations of desert plants.
22. The arid desert climate required the hiker to carry extra water to prevent dehydration.
23. The arid language of the legal document made it challenging for the layperson to understand.
24. The arid atmosphere of the meeting room stifled creativity and innovation.
25. The relationship had grown arid, lacking the emotional connection and warmth it once had.