Desertification (noun)

The process of land becoming increasingly dry and barren, often as a result of human activities or climate change.

Origin:

From desert meaning "dry and barren land" and -ification meaning "the process of making something".

Examples:

1. Desertification is a serious environmental problem in many parts of the world.
2. Overgrazing and deforestation can lead to desertification.
3. Desertification is a major threat to food security in dryland regions.
4. Desertification is a slow process, often taking place over decades or even centuries.
5. The desertification of the land has led to the displacement of local communities.