Sabkha

Sabkha

ˈsabkə

Noun

  • An area of coastal flats subject to periodic flooding and evaporation, which result in the accumulation of aeolian clays, evaporites, and salts, found in North Africa and Arabia.

Get a new word in your inbox every day.

By subscribing you are agreeing to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

Example Sentences

“The grant for studying desalination techniques in the sabkha gave the scientists funding for five years.” 

“The geologists were especially interested in studying the Abu Dhabi coastal sabkha.” 

“Sabkhas are found in the United States — the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah, for example.”

Word Origin

Arabic, late 19th century

Why this word?

The word “sabkha” refers to the geological formation of flat, salt-encrusted desert. While the word is a translation from Arabic (سبخه), sabkhas are not isolated to Arabic-speaking regions of the world. They can be found anywhere with a hot and dry tropical climate, including North Africa, the Gulf States, Mexico, the U.S., and Australia.

  • More brands you’ll love

    Elevate Your Everyday

    More brands you’ll love

    Elevate Your Everyday

    Subscribe to Better Report to receive tips and tricks that will save you money, maximize your time, and improve your life.

    Subscribe to Better Report
    By clicking “Subscribe” you’re agreeing to Better Report Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Learn a new word Ceilidh

ˈkālē