Collins English-English Dictionary

desert ['dεzət]

1. 1. n a region that is devoid or almost devoid of vegetation, esp because of low rainfall

2. 2. n an uncultivated uninhabited region

3. 3. n a place which lacks some desirable feature or quality

   a cultural desert

4. 4. n [modifier] of, relating to, or like a desert; infertile or desolate

5. 5. n [Etymology] C13: from Old French, from Church Latin desertum, from Latin deserere to abandon, literally: to sever one's links with, from de- + serere to bind together

desert [dɪ'z3ːt]

1. 1. vt. [tr] to leave or abandon (a person, place, etc) without intending to return, esp in violation of a duty, promise, or obligation

2. 2. vt. [military] to abscond from (a post or duty) with no intention of returning

3. 3. vt. [tr] to fail (someone) in time of need

   his good humour temporarily deserted him

4. 4. vt. [tr] [Scots law] to give up or postpone (a case or charge)

5. 5. vt. [Etymology] C15: from French déserter, from Late Latin desertare, from Latin deserere to forsake; see desert¹

desert [dɪ'z3ːt]

1. 1. n [often plural] something that is deserved or merited; just reward or punishment

2. 2. n the state of deserving a reward or punishment

3. 3. n virtue or merit

4. 4. n [Etymology] C13: from Old French deserte, from deservir to deserve