tundra

noun

tun·​dra ˈtən-drə 

also ˈtu̇n-

: a level or rolling treeless plain that is characteristic of arctic and subarctic regions, consists of black mucky soil with a permanently frozen subsoil, and has a dominant vegetation of mosses, lichens, herbs, and dwarf shrubs

also : a similar region confined to mountainous areas above timberline

Synonyms of tundra

• prairie
• steppe
• plain
• grassland
• savanna

Examples of tundra in a Sentence

a report on the arctic tundra of Alaska and the polar bears that inhabit that vast, frozen plain

Recent Examples on the Web

Perilous jungles, scorching deserts and frozen tundra slowed him down, but bureaucratic holdups brought his adventure to a halt for long periods. — Brian Melley, Los Angeles Times, 2 Nov. 2026

Perilous jungles, scorching deserts and frozen tundra slowed him down, but bureaucratic red tape often brought his adventure to a halt for long periods. — ABC News, 2 Nov. 2026

Away from the shore, the tundra is barren, a broad expanse of moss, lichen, and exposed rock. — Joshua Yaffa, New Yorker, 2 Nov. 2026

The seasonal drive—which can close at any time due to weather conditions—passes alpine tundra, wildlife habitat, the Continental Divide, scenic overlooks, trailheads, and visitor centers. — Bailey Berg, Travel + Leisure, 5 Oct. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Russian, from Russian dialect (northeast) tundra, tundara, from Kildin Sami (Sami language of the northern Kola Peninsula) tūnter

First Known Use

circa 1841, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing tundra

• tundra swan

Kids Definition

tundra

noun

tun·​dra ˈtən-drə 

also ˈtu̇n-

: a treeless plain especially of arctic regions having a permanently frozen layer below the surface soil and plant life made up mostly of mosses, lichens, herbs, and very small shrubs