oasis

noun

oa·​sis ō-ˈā-səs 

plural oases ō-ˈā-ˌsēz 

1

: a fertile or green area in an arid region (such as a desert)

The caravan stopped to rest at an oasis.

2

: something that provides refuge, relief, or pleasant contrast

The small park is a welcome oasis amid the city's many factories.

Examples of oasis in a Sentence

The small park is a welcome oasis amid the city's many factories.

Our brief trip to the beach was a much-needed oasis in a summer of hard work.

Recent Examples on the Web

Tucked inside a green oasis in the middle of the capital, Santo Domingo, are crocodiles, flamingos, and even tigers that officials have confiscated from people accused of illegally keeping them. — ABC News, 29 July 2026

Scenic drives along Independence Pass and Castle Creek Road, hikes through the Maroon Bells, and crisp mountain air make fall one of the most spectacular times to experience this magnificent Rocky Mountain oasis. — Lauren Dana Ellman, Travel + Leisure, 28 July 2026

Arrange the chairs and matching rattan coffee table poolside, on a patio, or beneath a pergola to create an at-home oasis. — Better Homes & Gardens, 26 July 2026

Le Blanc Spa Resort Cancun Retreat to Le Blanc Spa Resort Cancun for an oasis in the Hotel Zone. — Forbes Travel Guide, Forbes.com, 17 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Latin Oasis, referring to the Great Oasis of Kharge in the Libyan Desert of Egypt, borrowed from Greek Óasis (Herodotus), borrowed from Egyptian wḥꜢ.t "fertile area in the desert"

First Known Use

1613, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for oasis

• basis
• glacis
• mesas
• stasis
• anabasis
• cholestasis
• haemostasis
• hemostasis
• hypostasis
• periphrasis
• atelectasis
• bronchiectasis

Kids Definition

oasis

noun

oa·​sis ō-ˈā-səs 

plural oases -ˈā-ˌsēz 

1

: a fertile or green spot in a desert

2

: something or some place that provides refreshing relief