noun
wadi
WAH-dee/ˈwɑːdi/
A streambed or valley in an arid region that is usually dry.
The wadi remains dry downstream as rainwater begins filling its upper channel.
Etymology
The Arabic word for a seasonal watercourse derives from a verb meaning “flow.” It names the channel by its occasional flowing water, even when the streambed is dry.
In context
When the water of the wadi evaporates to nothing, the Arabian toad vanishes with it.
More examples
- Heavy rain can turn a wadi into a rushing stream.
- Several wadis cut through the rocky desert plateau.
- We cross the sandy floor of the wadi.
Forms
wadi · wadis