The term 'excessively DRY' can be described by two crossword solutions: ARID and SERE. ARID is an adjective meaning 'extremely DRY, especially of a climate or region'. It is derived from the Latin word aridus, meaning 'DRY'. SERE is an adjective meaning 'DRY and withered, especially of vegetation'. It is derived from the Latin word serere, meaning 'to DRY up'. Therefore, the term 'excessively DRY' can be accurately described by both ARID and SERE.