The term "semidesert" refers to a region that is characterized by a dry climate and sparse vegetation, but does not meet the criteria of a full-fledged desert. Synonyms for this word include terms like arid, semi-arid, steppe, and badlands. These words all describe regions that have limited amounts of rainfall and vegetation, but may differ in the specific environmental conditions present. For example, a steppe may have a slightly more abundant amount of grasses and other plants compared to a badlands, which may be more rocky and barren. No matter the term used, all of these words describe regions that require specialized adaptations for both plant and animal life to survive.