# oasis

/oʊˈeɪsɪs/ (US) · /əʊˈeɪsɪs/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/oasis
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. desert water source

noun · CEFR B2

a place in a desert where there is water and plants can grow.

For teachers: a fertile spot in a desert where water is found, typically supporting vegetation and human habitation.

- The travellers were relieved to find a small oasis with palm trees after days in the hot sand.
- The ancient caravan routes were determined by the location of oases, which provided the only reliable water sources in the vast expanse of the Sahara.

Usage: The plural form is 'oases'.

### 2. peaceful place

noun · CEFR B2

a calm or pleasant place that is different from the noisy or busy area around it.

For teachers: a figurative sanctuary or peaceful situation that provides a contrast to surrounding turmoil, noise, or unpleasantness.

- The small park in the centre of the city is a quiet oasis for office workers.
- In the midst of the frantic holiday shopping season, the library remained a silent oasis for those seeking to escape the crowds.

## Examples

- The hikers found an oasis in the middle of the desert.
- After weeks of heavy traffic, the quiet park felt like an oasis of peace.
- In the chaotic city center, the small library served as an oasis of calm, offering silence and order amidst the noise.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.