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

Showcasing more than 400 pieces of art, the space seamlessly marries modern and traditional design elements to create a hotel experience that feels like an indulgent oasis. —Holly Johnson, Architectural Digest, 13 Mar. 2026

Fufu Tokyo Ginza is an urban oasis in every sense—34 suites with private gardens and natural hot spring baths sourced from Atami, all perched above the Ginza 1-chome intersection with direct metro access below. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Mar. 2026

Lush lawns and verdant foliage knit the outdoor spaces together, creating a tranquil, seamless garden oasis. —Mark David, Robb Report, 10 Mar. 2026

An oasis settlement developed by Arab traders in the 12th century, Skoura was an important stop on the caravan routes between Marrakesh and Timbuktu, in present-day Mali. —Kevin West, Travel + Leisure, 10 Mar. 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
• atelectasis
• bronchiectasis
• homeostasis

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