Oasis Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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oasis
[əʊˈeɪsɪs ]
Definitions
a place of peace and tranquility
An oasis is a fertile spot in a desert where water is found, providing relief and nourishment to travelers. It is often surrounded by lush vegetation and palm trees, creating a peaceful and serene environment.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| oasis |
Commonly used to describe a peaceful area in the midst of a difficult or hectic environment, both literally (like in a desert) and metaphorically.
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| haven |
Often used to describe a safe place where people feel protected and at peace, usually in the context of providing refuge or comfort.
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| retreat |
Generally used to describe a place people go to get away from everyday stress, often for relaxation, reflection, or spiritual renewal.
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| sanctuary |
Widely used to denote a place of safety and peace, often with religious or spiritual connotations. It can also mean a place where animals are protected.
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Examples of usage
- The weary travelers were overjoyed to stumble upon an oasis in the middle of the desert.
- After days of wandering in the arid desert, the sight of an oasis brought hope to the explorers.
- The oasis offered shade, water, and a sense of calm amidst the harsh desert landscape.
a source of relief or refuge
In a metaphorical sense, an oasis can refer to a place or situation that provides comfort, relief, or refuge from difficulties or stress. It symbolizes a sanctuary or safe haven in the midst of chaos or challenges.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| oasis |
An oasis is typically used to describe a place in the desert with water and vegetation, representing relief or rest in an otherwise harsh environment.
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| refuge |
Refuge refers to a place of safety or protection from danger or hardship. It is often used in contexts involving escape from threats.
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| shelter |
Shelter generally means a place that provides protection from the elements or danger, and is often used in the context of basic human necessities.
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| retreat |
Retreat implies a quiet and private place that people go to unwind or meditate; it can also mean withdrawing from a situation, often stressful.
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Examples of usage
- Amidst the chaos of city life, her home was an oasis of peace and tranquility.
- Music has always been an oasis for her, allowing her to escape from the troubles of the world.
- Nature can be an oasis for those seeking solace and connection with the earth.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Geography
- Oases are crucial for wildlife, providing water and shelter in harsh desert environments.
- Some of the largest known oases can be found in the Sahara Desert, supporting communities and agriculture.
Literature
- In many stories and poems, an oasis symbolizes hope and refuge, often representing a hidden joy in difficult situations.
- Writers like Ernest Hemingway and T.E. Lawrence have used oases as metaphors for peace and serenity amidst chaos.
History
- Throughout history, travelers relied on oases as vital stops for water and food on trade routes across deserts.
- Famous ancient cities like Timbuktu developed around oases, making them centers of trade and culture.
Science
- Oases often create unique microclimates that support diverse ecosystems, with plants and animals that wouldn't survive elsewhere.
- The phenomenon of oasis formation can be attributed to underground water sources, which surface in arid regions.
Origin of 'oasis'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the ancient Greek 'oasis,' which was derived from Egyptian and originally meant 'dwelling place.'
- In Arabic, the word for oasis is 'waḥa,' which refers to a fertile spot in a desert.
The word 'oasis' originated from the Ancient Egyptian word 'wḥ3t', meaning 'fertile area in the desert'. Oases have played a crucial role in history as stopping points for travelers crossing deserts. They provided water, food, and shelter in harsh environments, allowing civilizations to thrive in arid regions. The concept of an oasis has since evolved to represent not just a physical location, but also a metaphor for a place of refuge and tranquility.