Area clear and completely dry (4)

I believe the answer is:

arid

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'completely dry' is the definition.
'arid' can be an answer for 'dry' (similar in meaning). I am not sure about the 'completely' bit.

'area clear' is the wordplay.
'area' becomes 'a' (maths abbreviation).
'clear' becomes 'rid' (synonyms).
'a'+'rid'='ARID'

'and' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for arid that I've seen before include "water shortage?" , "Dry and sere" , "Drought-hit" , "Without much rainfall" , "Dry and withered" .)

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