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

For Sean Hogan, owner of Portland’s Cistus Nursery, known for introducing xeric and Mediterranean-climate plants from around the world to the Northwest, said you need to become a weather detective to zone surf.

From Seattle Times

Stands of rare xeric tallgrass prairie, one of the oldest varieties on earth, swayed in the hot wind.

From Los Angeles Times

It flows through wooded areas like parts of Redden State Forest in Delaware and habitats that include ancient, inland forests where there are rare sand ridges called xeric dunes.

From Washington Times

While the monitoring and treatment will keep visitors out of the Central Operable Unit, Surovchak said, the public shouldn’t be denied the 5,000 acres of xeric tallgrass prairie that surround it on all sides.

From Washington Times

The specimen examined from four miles north of Jaumave was trapped in a xeric area in which the vegetation consisted of mesquite, high palmlike yuccas, and "lechugilla."

From Project Gutenberg