thirst

play

noun \ˈthərst\

Definition of thirst

1a : a sensation of dryness in the mouth and throat associated with a desire for liquids; also : the bodily condition (as of dehydration) that induces this sensationb : a desire or need to drink
2 : an ardent desire : craving, longing a thirst for success

See thirst defined for English-language learners

See thirst defined for kids

Examples of thirst in a Sentence

his thirst for knowledge is evident in his book-filled house
an unquenchable thirst for travel that has led her to the far corners of the globe

Origin and Etymology of thirst

Middle English, from Old English thurst; akin to Old High German durst thirst, Latin torrēre to dry, parch, Old Irish tart dryness, thirst, Greek tersesthai to become dry

First Known Use: before 12th century

thirst

verb

Definition of thirst

intransitive verb
1 : to feel thirsty : suffer thirst
2 : to crave vehemently and urgently thirsted for revenge thirsting after justice

thirster

noun

See thirst defined for English-language learners

Before 12th Century

First Known Use of thirst

before 12th century

Synonym Discussion of thirst

long, yearn, hanker, pine, hunger, thirst mean to have a strong desire for something. long implies a wishing with one's whole heart and often a striving to attain. longed for some rest yearn suggests an eager, restless, or painful longing. yearned for a stage career hanker suggests the uneasy promptings of unsatisfied appetite or desire. always hankering for money pine implies a languishing or a fruitless longing for what is impossible. pined for a lost love hunger and thirst imply an insistent or impatient craving or a compelling need. hungered for a business of his own thirsted for power

THIRST Defined for English Language Learners

thirst

play

noun

Definition of thirst for English Language Learners

: an uncomfortable feeling that is caused by the need for something to drink
: a very great need for something to drink
: a strong desire for something

thirst

verb

Definition of thirst for English Language Learners

: to have or feel a strong desire

THIRST Defined for Kids

thirst

play

noun \ˈthərst\

Definition of thirst for Students

1 : a feeling of dryness in the mouth and throat that accompanies a need for liquids
2 : the bodily condition that produces thirst die of thirst
3 : a strong desire a thirst for knowledge

thirst

play

verb

Definition of thirst for Students

thirsted

;

thirsting

1 : to feel a need for liquids
2 : to have a strong desire They thirst for freedom.

Medical Dictionary

thirst

play

noun \ˈthərst\

Medical Definition of thirst

: a sensation of dryness in the mouth and throat associated with a desire for liquids; also : the bodily condition (as of dehydration) that induces this sensation