thirsty - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
thirsty Word Meanings
- feeling a need for water
- eager for something, especially knowledge or attention
- having a dry mouth
thirsty Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
thirsty Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈθɜːsti/
US
/ˈθɜrsti/
thirsty Word Etymology
thirsty = thirst + -y; Origin: Old English 'þirsta', related to Old High German 'durst', ultimately from Proto-Germanic. Memory image: Picture someone in a desert, desperately needing water, mouth dry and cracked, feeling an urgent thirst.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I tilt my head and move my hand toward the glass, the bottle cool in my palm. I set the rim to my lips and push a slow stream toward my mouth, feeling the dry heat of my mouth loosen as water answers. My mouth grows wetter and the dry mouth relaxes as thirst shifts toward relief. I keep the glass steady, adjust my breathing, and watch the urge to drink soften into calm.
Real Context
Thirsty describes a state of needing water or a strong desire for something else. Literally it applies after physical exertion when your mouth is dry and you want to drink. Figuratively, people are described as thirsty for knowledge, attention, opportunity, or success, which signals intense motivation or eagerness. The word carries a sense of urgency and can be used for individuals, groups, or things that lack supply and crave more. In casual speech it's common, but in formal writing you may prefer milder phrasing or 'keen to' depending on context.
Usage Reminders
- Use thirsty for strong desire (literal or figurative).
- Literally describe needing water after activity.
- Metaphor: thirsty for knowledge, attention, opportunities.
- Often followed by for or after a verb (thirsty for information; thirsty after class).
- Avoid thirsty in very formal writing unless metaphor is intentional.
Common Misconceptions
- Thirsty only means wanting to drink water
- It cannot describe desires for non-water things
- It always has a negative connotation
- You must use 'to' after thirsty in all phrases
- Thirsty can only describe people, not groups or things
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Notice the contexts where thirsty is literal vs figurative
- Pair 'thirsty for' with abstract nouns (knowledge, attention)
- Avoid overusing in formal writing unless the metaphor is deliberate
- Practice replacing mild desire with synonyms like eager or keen when appropriate
- Listen for natural collocations in conversation
- Remember that 'thirsty' emphasizes urgency or intensity
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'thirsty'?
A.Feeling warm
B.Wanting to drink
C.Feeling sleepy
D.Feeling hungry
Step 2: Usage
Choose the sentence where 'thirsty' is used correctly:
A.He drank the whole bottle but still felt full.
B.She was tired and thirsty after the long hike.
C.The movie was so exciting that she felt bored.
D.The sun was shining bright in the morning.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'thirsty'?
A.Cold
B.Hungry
C.Happy
D.Tired
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an antonym of 'thirsty'?
A.Angry
B.Sad
C.Full
D.Excited
Step 5: Mastery
In what situation would you feel thirsty?
A.After eating a big meal
B.After running a marathon
C.After swimming in a pool
D.After a good night's sleep
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App