An oasis is a fertile area in a desert or arid region where water is available, supporting vegetation, wildlife, and human life amid surrounding dryness.
Formation
Oases form from natural sources like springs, aquifers, or underground rivers that bring water to the surface, or through human efforts such as wells and irrigation. They often occur in hydrologically favored spots with high water tables or seasonal lakes.
Importance
These spots provide essential water, food, and shelter for survival in harsh deserts, while fostering biodiversity and serving as historical trade hubs for caravans. Many oases rely on ongoing human management to sustain their ecosystems.
Figurative Use
Beyond geography, "oasis" describes any refuge or pleasant contrast, like a peaceful park in a busy city.
