aridification

American  

[uh-rid-uh-fi-key-shuhn] / əˌrɪd ə fɪˈkeɪ ʃən /

noun

Ecology.

1. the long-term process by which a humid region becomes increasingly dry, chiefly as an effect of climate change and often in combination with human interference with the ecology.

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Etymology

Origin of aridification

First recorded in 1900–05; arid + -i- + -fication

Example Sentences

“The only real path to managing the long-term aridification of the West is a seven-state agreement,” Hickenlooper said.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 11, 2025

This was driven by the aridification of the Nile basin, with the 'Green Sahara' of the African Humid Period transforming into the present-day hyper-arid Sahara Desert.

From Science Daily • Jun. 3, 2024

Combined with aridification caused by climate change, the drying tunnels have prompted many members of Saadi’s community to move away from the mountains and into cities.

From Science Magazine • Sep. 19, 2023

“There might be additional resources that are needed to really solve this. I think most experts feel this is not just a drought — there is some level of aridification, desertification,” Mr. Hickenlooper said.

From Washington Times • Feb. 8, 2023

“As we consider the long-term aridification of the Colorado River Basin, the math is simple: Water uses exceed water supplies,” Entsminger said.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 17, 2022