tuksnesis

Etymology
From the same stem as (q.v.). The ending is probably the result of the reinterpretation of a previous, plural of (with the suffix ), as singular, leading to  → ; note the variations in form in older sources. The current form,, is attested from the 18th century on.

Noun

 * 1) desert large barren area, with little or no vegetation, usually because of lack of water