wadis
/ˈwɑːdiz/
NOUN
1. Seasonally dry valleys and stream beds
Valleys, gullies, or stream beds in northern Africa and southwest Asia that remain dry except during the rainy season.
1.1. Dry river channels
Natural channels or stream beds that are usually dry but may carry water during the rainy season or after heavy rainfall.
Synonyms
- arroyos
- washes
- nullahs
- coulees
- draws
Examples
- The caravan followed ancient routes through the desert, guided by the presence of seasonal wadis.
- After heavy rainfall, the previously dry wadis became flowing channels.
Related Words
- riverbeds
- watercourses
- drainage channels
- flood channels
- streams
- waterways
1.2. Desert valleys and ravines
Valleys, gullies, or narrow depressions in arid landscapes, often surrounded by rocky slopes and shaped by occasional flowing water.
Synonyms
Examples
- The explorers discovered hidden oases surrounded by lush vegetation and flowing wadis.
- Nomadic communities thrived along the banks of life-giving wadis.
- Geologists studied the unique ecosystems formed by multiple wadis in the arid landscape.