(usually in the plural) That which is deserved or merited; a just punishment or reward.

Obsolete form of dessert.

A barren area of land with little water or vegetation, often hot and sandy.

(figurative) Any barren place or situation.

To leave (anything that depends on one's presence to survive, exist, or succeed), especially when contrary to a promise or obligation; to abandon; to forsake.

To leave one's duty or post, especially to leave a military or naval unit without permission.

Usually of a place: abandoned, deserted, or uninhabited.