drought
UK: draʊt | US: draʊt
n. a prolonged period of abnormally low rainfall, leading to a shortage of water
n. (figurative) a prolonged lack or scarcity of something
The word "drought" originates from Old English drūgaþ, derived from drūgian ("to dry up"), which is related to dryge ("dry"). The suffix -th (as in "growth," "strength") forms abstract nouns indicating a state or condition. Over time, "drought" specifically came to denote a prolonged dry period, reflecting its root in the concept of dryness. The word’s evolution highlights how environmental conditions shape language, with the suffix solidifying its meaning as a measurable state of aridity.
The severe drought caused crop failures across the region.
Scientists warn that climate change may increase the frequency of droughts.
After months of drought, the riverbed was completely cracked.
The writer experienced a creative drought and struggled to produce new work.
Farmers are adopting new techniques to combat the effects of drought.