xeric

[ zeer-ik ]

adjective

1. of, relating to, or adapted to a dry environment.

xeric

/ ˈzɪərɪk /

adjective

1. ecology of, relating to, or growing in dry conditions

xeric

/ zĕr′ĭk,zîr′- /

1. Relating or adapted to an extremely dry habitat. Succulents such as cacti, aloes, and agaves are xeric plants.
2. Compare hydric

Derived Forms

• ˈxerically, adverb

Other Words From

• xeri·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of xeric¹

First recorded in 1925–30; from Greek xēr(ós) “dry” + -ic ( def 3 )

Example Sentences

These are woodland, grassland, limnic, and xeric scrub plant formations.

From Project Gutenberg

Both species live under xeric or near-xeric conditions, for the climate of Mesa Verde is semi-arid.

From Project Gutenberg

On the Gulf lowlands its distribution seems to be limited to xeric coastal habitats.

From Project Gutenberg

Trees, and other vegetation in general, are somewhat more xeric in aspect than are those in Skink Woods.

From Project Gutenberg

Xeric conditions surrounding some of the higher mountains are barriers to movement of some species.

From Project Gutenberg