desert🔊

A barren area of land or desolate terrain, especially one with little water or vegetation; a wasteland.

In particular, a barren, arid area of land which is hot, with sandy, rocky, or parched ground.

(figuratively) Any barren place or situation.

''Usually of a place'': abandoned, deserted, or uninhabited. +

To leave (anything that depends on one's presence to survive, exist, or succeed), especially when contrary to a promise or obligation; to abandon; to forsake.

To leave one's duty or post, especially to leave a military or naval unit without permission.

(deserved)(fossil) That which is deserved or merited; a just punishment or reward.

(dessert)