dry up

verb

dried up; drying up; dries up

transitive verb

: to cut off the supply of

intransitive verb

1
: to disappear as if by evaporation, draining, or cutting off of a source of supply
2
: to wither or die through gradual loss of vitality
3
: to stop talking

Examples of dry up in a Sentence

sick of her constant complaining, he angrily told her to dry up
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Dry eye occurs when the eyes don't produce enough tears or when tears evaporate (dry up) too quickly. Sarah Hudgens, Health, 17 May 2025 One expert said the pipeline of tech talent is strong now, but there are concerns the pipeline might dry up if the Trump administration continues to cut federal funding for scientific research. Cory Smith, Baltimore Sun, 16 May 2025 Fire departments across the state are seeing recruitment efforts fall short and retirements or other opportunities dry up the ranks. Jason Cerrano, The Orlando Sentinel, 16 May 2025 As insurers flee the state, access to insurance for thousands of homeowners has dried up. Kristian Fors, Oc Register, 16 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for dry up

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of dry up was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Dry up.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dry%20up. Accessed 22 May. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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