B2noun3K

Drought

UK //draʊt//US //draʊt//

Definition

A prolonged dry period with insufficient rainfall.

In simple words: A long period without rain.

Examples

  • The drought has caused severe water shortages across the region.
  • Farmers are struggling due to the persistent drought affecting their crops.
  • The government declared a state of emergency because of the ongoing drought.
  • Wildlife is suffering as the drought dries up their natural habitats.
  • After several months of drought, the rivers were barely flowing.

Usage notes

Used in both formal and informal contexts, particularly when discussing weather or agriculture. More appropriate in scientific or environmental discussions.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Sounds like 'out' - when it's a drought, water is out!

Collocations

  • severe drought
  • drought relief
  • drought conditions

Synonyms

  • dry spell
  • aridity
  • water shortage

Antonyms

  • flood
  • plenty
  • abundance

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'droughts' for plural when referring to the phenomenon in general.
  • Mispronouncing 'drought' as it is not pronounced like 'droughty'.