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Manser, Martin H. "desert/dessert." Writer's Reference Center. Facts On File, Inc. Web. 9 Apr. 2025. <http://fofweb.infobase.com/wrc/Detail.aspx?iPin=GTGW309>.
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desert/dessert

Definition 
These two nouns are pronounced differently and are unrelated in meaning. Desert (which is pronounced with the stress on the first syllable) means "arid wasteland" (a vast, sandy desert). Note, however, that when used in the plural to mean "deserved reward" (get your just deserts) the stress is placed on the second syllable. Dessert (which is pronounced with the stress on the second syllable) denotes the "sweet course of a meal" (a delicious frozen dessert).

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