drought

noun

variants or less commonly drouth
1
: a period of dryness especially when prolonged
specifically : one that causes extensive damage to crops or prevents their successful growth
resistant to drought
2
: a prolonged or chronic shortage or lack of something expected or desired
a drought of creativity
droughtiness noun
droughty
ˈdrau̇-tē
adjective

Examples of drought in a Sentence

The drought caused serious damage to crops. a period of drought that lasted several years
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But now, due to the ongoing regional drought, the bridge and parts of the surrounding town have resurfaced, attracting visitors from near and far to marvel at the rare sight. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2024 If the drought persists, who’s going to feel it the most? Clio Chang, Curbed, 5 Nov. 2024 The drought that is affecting part of South America, coupled with public pressure, is forcing technology giants such as Google, Amazon, and Microsoft to reformulate their data center projects in the region in favor of low-water consumption ones. Sam Meredith, CNBC, 4 Nov. 2024 For the Lower 48 states, there has not been this much drought shown on the U.S. Drought Monitor since December 2022. Ashleigh Fields, The Hill, 31 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for drought 

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English drūgath, from drūgian to dry up; akin to Old English drȳge dry — more at dry

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of drought was before the 12th century

Dictionary Entries Near drought

Cite this Entry

“Drought.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/drought. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

drought

noun
variants also drouth
ˈdrau̇t How to pronounce drought (audio)
ˈdrau̇th
: a long period of dry weather
droughty
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on drought

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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