Xeric refers to a dry or desert-like environment. Synonyms for this word include arid, parched, and droughty, which all evoke a sense of desiccation and a lack of moisture. Another synonym for xeric is dryland, which is typically used to describe areas that receive very little rainfall. Meanwhile, semi-arid landscapes are characterized by sparse vegetation and limited precipitation, making them a synonym for xeric as well. Other terms that can be used interchangeably with xeric include dry, dusty, withered, and barren. Each of these synonyms underscores the harsh and unforgiving nature of dry climates and their impact on the organisms that inhabit them.