drought - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
drought Word Meanings
- a prolonged period of abnormally low rainfall
- a shortage of water
- a situation of severe dryness
drought Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
drought Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/draʊt/
US
/draʊt/
drought Word Etymology
The root 'drought' decomposes as 'drou-' from Old English 'drūgian' meaning 'to dry' + 'ght' as a suffix for state or condition. The word originated from Old English and has similar forms in Middle English, influenced by Old Norse. Imagine a cracked earth baking under the sun, depicting the dire conditions of drought, where plants wilt and rivers dry up.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I grip the watering can and move the spout closer to the bed, then adjust the flow to coax a thin stream. The soil drinks slowly, the cracks widen, and the air feels dry against my skin. I change my plan, pull back a little, and push water where it matters, and I keep my rhythm steady despite the drought creeping in.
Real Context
Drought refers to a prolonged period with little or no rainfall, leading to water shortages that affect agriculture, ecosystems, and communities. It is a natural climate phenomenon that can last months or years, and its impacts can be felt in dry soils, shrinking rivers, crop failures, higher fire risk, and strained water supplies. Drought is not just about lack of rain; it involves timing, duration, and the way water is stored and managed. People often describe drought in terms of how plants look, how rivers behave, and how water bills rise. It contrasts with flood, which is sudden and intense.
Usage Reminders
- Drought describes a long-term water shortage, not a single dry day.
- It is connected to water supply, agriculture, and climate patterns.
- It differs from heat waves and floods by duration and management needs.
- Common phrases: drought conditions, drought-prone area, drought relief.
- Discuss duration, severity, and adaptation when talking about drought.
Common Misconceptions
- Drought means no rain forever; it lasts indefinitely.
- Drought only happens in deserts or arid regions.
- A drought is the same as a heat wave.
- If it rains a little, it’s not a drought.
- Drought is only a weather issue, not tied to water management or policy.
Thinking Differences
Drought in English contexts often centers on long-term water shortage and social impact; learners may confuse drought with a single dry spell or heatwave. Emphasize the duration and management aspects when speaking.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations: drought conditions, drought-prone region, drought relief.
- Compare drought with related terms: drought vs dry spell vs heat wave.
- Use dates and durations when describing a drought (months/years).
- Familiarize with verbs: endure, persist, exacerbate, mitigate in drought contexts.
- Study regional examples to see how communities adapt.
- Practice describing impacts on farming, wildlife, and water supply.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'drought'?
A.An ocean wave
B.A rainy day
C.A dry season
D.A snowy night
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'drought' correctly?
A.The garden flourished despite the drought.
B.The river overflowed due to the drought.
C.She carried an umbrella during the drought.
D.He wore a coat to protect from the drought.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'drought'?
A.Flood
B.Dry spell
C.Downpour
D.Storm
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'drought'?
A.Harvest
B.Precipitation
C.Moisture
D.Abundance
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you most likely encounter a drought?
A.Farming in a dry region
B.Planting a garden
C.Skiing in the mountains
D.Going for a swim at the beach
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