Oasis (noun)

1. A small area of land in a desert that has water and vegetation, enabling life to exist.
2. A place or situation that provides refuge, rest, or pleasant contrast amidst an unpleasant or arid surrounding.

Origin:

Mid 17th century: from greek, literally "place of verdure"; compare with arabic "wā"i".

Examples:

1. The oasis was a welcome sight after days of traveling through the desert.
2. The oasis was a small but lush area with trees and a spring.
3. The town was an oasis of civilization in the middle of the wilderness.
4. The city was an oasis of culture in the desert of the rural area.
5. The park was an oasis of green in the concrete jungle of the city.