drought

/draʊt/
nounIntermediate
general

A prolonged period of abnormally low rainfall, leading to water shortages and adverse impacts on agriculture, ecosystems, and human activities.

Farmers are struggling due to the ongoing drought.

The lack of rain has made it difficult for farmers to grow crops.

The drought has turned the landscape into a barren wasteland.

The prolonged dry spell has left the area dry and lifeless.

💡

Droughts can be classified as meteorological, agricultural, hydrological, or socioeconomic based on their impacts.

Collocations

severe droughtan extreme lack of raindrought-resistant cropsplants that can survive with little waterdrought conditionsenvironmental state caused by prolonged dryness

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

drought-prone areaphrase
a region frequently affected by droughts
drought reliefphrase
efforts to mitigate the effects of drought

💡Pro Tip

Usage in Context

Use 'drought' to describe prolonged dryness affecting water supply, agriculture, or ecosystems.

Gold Rule

Avoid Misuse

Do not use 'drought' for short-term dryness; it refers to prolonged periods.

📖Word Origin

From Middle English 'drouht,' from Old English 'drūgoth,' meaning 'dryness, drought,' from Proto-Germanic 'drūgithō.'

📝Usage Notes

The term is commonly used in environmental and agricultural contexts to describe prolonged dry periods with significant impacts.

Word Breakdown

drought
prolonged dryness
root
English Dictionary