aridest
|a-rid-est|
/ˈærɪdɪst/
(arid)
dry, lacking moisture
Etymology
'arid' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'aridus', where 'arēre' meant 'to be dry'.
'arid' changed from Old French word 'aride' and entered Middle English as 'arid', eventually becoming the modern English word 'arid'.
Initially, it meant 'dry' (physically lacking moisture); over time it retained that core meaning but also developed a figurative sense of 'lacking interest or imagination'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
extremely dry; having very little rain or moisture (used of climate, land, or regions).
The aridest parts of the plateau support almost no vegetation.
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Adjective 2
figuratively, very lacking in interest, imagination, or excitement; extremely dull or dry (in speech, writing, or presentation).
Of all the reports, that was the aridest—the audience barely reacted.
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Last updated: 2025/10/13 20:20