tundra

noun

tun·​dra ˈtən-drə How to pronounce tundra (audio)
 also  ˈtu̇n-
: a level or rolling treeless plain that is characteristic of arctic and subarctic regions, consists of black mucky soil with a permanently frozen subsoil, and has a dominant vegetation of mosses, lichens, herbs, and dwarf shrubs
also : a similar region confined to mountainous areas above timberline

Examples of tundra in a Sentence

a report on the arctic tundra of Alaska and the polar bears that inhabit that vast, frozen plain
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.
This first-of-its-kind attraction will take guests on an exhilarating journey through towering glaciers, vast tundra and the icy depths of the Arctic Ocean, encountering some of the planet’s most awe-inspiring wildlife along the way. Tracy Yochum, Miami Herald, 4 Apr. 2025 The brutal Arctic tundra, rare glimpses of sunlight, and eccentric small-town characters are the draw here. Andrea Duncan-Mao, Vulture, 26 Feb. 2025 The final version will be largely CGI—the trailer features Krypto dragging Superman across a frozen tundra, a feat that even Jolene couldn’t pull off. Eliana Dockterman, Time, 1 Apr. 2025 The warming of large swaths of its vast tundra and boreal forests certainly holds significant economic potential. Michael Albertus, Foreign Affairs, 4 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for tundra

Word History

Etymology

Russian, from Russian dialect (northeast) tundra, tundara, from Kildin Sami (Sami language of the northern Kola Peninsula) tūnter

First Known Use

circa 1841, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of tundra was circa 1841

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Cite this Entry

“Tundra.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tundra. Accessed 23 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

tundra

noun
tun·​dra ˈtən-drə How to pronounce tundra (audio)
 also  ˈtu̇n-
: a treeless plain especially of arctic regions having a permanently frozen layer below the surface soil and plant life made up mostly of mosses, lichens, herbs, and very small shrubs

More from Merriam-Webster on tundra

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