ENGLISH
REFERENCE

thirsty

adj.
US //ˈθɝsti// UK //θˈɜːsti// thirsty
  1. 1 needing a drink (adj.)
    A1 Beginner

    feeling a need to drink something because you are dry.

    experiencing a physical desire or need for liquid refreshment.

    Example

    We were very thirsty after walking in the sun all afternoon.

    Example

    The hikers arrived at the summit feeling incredibly thirsty, having exhausted their water supply hours before reaching the final ridge.
  2. 2 craving something (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Literary

    having a strong desire for something, like power or knowledge.

    having a vehement or eager desire for something immaterial.

    Example

    The young student was thirsty for any information about her family history.

    Example

    The ambitious politician appeared thirsty for power, seizing every opportunity to undermine his rivals during the televised debate.
  3. 3 desperate for attention (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Slang Informal

    acting in a way that shows you are desperate for attention or romantic interest.

    showing a desperate or excessive need for attention, approval, or romantic interest.

    Example

    He keeps posting gym selfies because he is thirsty for likes.

    Example

    Her constant stream of dramatic updates made her look thirsty for validation from people she barely knew in real life.

    Usage

    Often used to describe social media behaviour.

    Teacher's tip

    This is a very modern, informal use; it is often used as a criticism of someone's social media posts.
Origin

From Middle English thirsty, from Old English þurstiġ, from Proto-West Germanic *þurstug. Equivalent to thirst + -y. Cognate with Dutch dorstig, German durstig.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Word family

Last updated June 20, 2026