semiarid

[ sem-ee-ar-id, sem-ahy- ]

adjective

1. characterized by very little annual rainfall, usually from 10 to 20 inches (25 to 50 centimeters):

   the struggle to raise vegetables in semiarid regions.

semiarid

/ ˌsɛmɪˈærɪd /

adjective

1. characterized by scanty rainfall and scrubby vegetation, often occurring in continental interiors

   the semiarid regions of Australia

semiarid

/ sĕm′ē-ăr′ĭd /

1. Having low precipitation but able to support grassland and scrubby vegetation. Steppes have semiarid climates.

Derived Forms

• ˌsemiaˈridity, noun

Other Words From

• sem·i·a·rid·ity [sem-ee-, uh, -, rid, -i-tee, sem-ahy-], noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of semiarid¹

An Americanism dating back to 1895–1900; semi- + arid

Example Sentences

By 2030, the project aims to plant 100 million hectares of trees along the Sahel, the semiarid zone lining the desert’s southern edge.

From Science News

Later studies of pollen and plants preserved near Brontosaurus fossils have shown that the dino stomped through a semiarid landscape, no floaties needed.

From Science News

Arid and extremely arid land are deserts, and semiarid grasslands generally are referred to as steppes.

From Project Gutenberg

These animals are usually restricted to sandy soils in semiarid regions.

From Project Gutenberg

Irrigation problems in our semiarid regions are receiving careful and increased consideration.

From Project Gutenberg

But the action of wind is most strikingly effective in desert and semiarid regions.

From Project Gutenberg

Because of its semiarid climate, the State has only 600 square miles of wooded area.

From Project Gutenberg