xeriscape

noun

xeri·​scape ˈzir-ə-ˌskāp How to pronounce xeriscape (audio) ˈzer- How to pronounce xeriscape (audio)
often capitalized
: a landscaping method developed especially for arid and semiarid climates that utilizes water-conserving techniques (such as the use of drought-tolerant plants, mulch, and efficient irrigation)

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Xēros is the Greek word for "dry" that is the base for a handful of English words related to mainly dry printing (xerography) and dry, or xerophilous, habitats and their plants. In the early 1980s, the Greek adjective was used to name a type of landscaping practiced primarily in the arid western regions of the United States. (The Water Department of Denver, Colorado, is credited with the coinage.) Xeriscape, as it is called, uses plants that require little water as well as techniques that efficiently use water and reduce evaporation.

Examples of xeriscape in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The library partnered with Pflugerville Public Works — Water Conservation to install a xeriscape in front of the library to promote its Pflourishing Flora program. Jennifer Griswold, Austin American-Statesman, 2 Dec. 2024 The 1-acre Paradise Green lot has a guest casita, patios, a pool, sports courts, xeriscape gardening, and an outdoor fireplace; Scottsdale's Old Town is 15 minutes by car. The Week Staff, theweek, 13 Aug. 2024 Surprise: xeriscape installation in new homes, automatic irrigation controller. The Arizona Republic, 27 May 2023 There are options for everything from dynamic desert xeriscapes to seasonally vibrant rain swales, and even unique ones to make your cottage garden sing with more sustainability. By sunset, Sunset Magazine, 14 Apr. 2023 See all Example Sentences for xeriscape 

Word History

First Known Use

1982, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of xeriscape was in 1982

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Cite this Entry

“Xeriscape.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/xeriscape. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

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