desierto

desert

noun adjective deh-SYER-toh Less Common

Usage Note

Desierto as a noun is a desert; as an adjective it means 'deserted' or 'empty' (la calle estaba desierta). A competition can be declared desierto ('void, with no winner'). The Sahara and the Atacama are both desiertos — the word covers any arid expanse regardless of temperature.

Examples

"Cruzaron el desierto en camello."

Natural Translation

They crossed the desert on camels.

Related Words

Explore Spanish by topic

SpanishNow

Ser vs. Estar: When to Use Each in Spanish

Ser vs estar made simple: how you feel and where you are use estar, everything else uses ser. Master the rule, the exceptions, and the traps that flip meaning.

June 3, 2026 6 min read

SpanishNow

How to Roll Your Rs in Spanish (Even If You Can't Yet)

Roll your Rs in Spanish by building from the butter sound you already make, then adding airflow. A step-by-step method, minimal pairs, and self-check drills.

June 3, 2026 7 min read

SpanishNow

Spain vs Latin American Spanish: Key Differences

Spain and Latin American Spanish are fully mutually intelligible. Compare vosotros vs ustedes, coche vs carro, the 'th' sound, and learn which one to study.

June 9, 2026 6 min read

SpanishNow

How to Tell Time in Spanish: A Beginner's Guide

Tell time in Spanish with one formula: es la una vs son las, y and menos for minutes, plus de la mañana, en punto, and 24-hour station times.

June 9, 2026 5 min read