a fertile tract in a desert (where the water table approaches the surface)
"The weary travelers found shelter and drinking water at the lush oasis hidden deep within the scorching sand dunes."
A spring of fresh water, surrounded by a fertile region of vegetation, in a desert.
"The travelers found relief at an oasis where a spring fed lush greenery amidst the surrounding sand dunes."
In plain English: An oasis is a small, fertile spot of land with water and plants located in an otherwise dry desert area.
"After walking in the hot desert for hours, we found an oasis with plenty of cool water and green trees to rest under."
Usage: Use this word to describe any small area of relief or refreshment found within an otherwise harsh environment, whether literal like a desert well or metaphorical such as a quiet corner in a busy city. Avoid using it for general green spaces unless they specifically offer a stark contrast to their surrounding conditions.
Acronym of Organization for the Advancement of Structured Information Standards.
"Oasis is a small community located in eastern Riverside County, California."
A census-designated place in Riverside County, California, United States.
The word oasis comes from the Ancient Greek óasis, which was borrowed directly from Demotic Egyptian. Originally referring to a fertile spot in the desert or even a cauldron, it traveled into English via Late Latin before becoming part of our modern vocabulary.