thirst
6 synonyms and 0 antonyms for thirst, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — The feeling of needing something to drink.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use thirst
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old English þurst, related to Latin torridus ("scorched, dry") — the underlying sense is dryness.
Full origin of thirst →Frequently asked questions
What does “thirst” mean?
The word “thirst” means the feeling of needing something to drink. In plain terms, the need for a drink, or, figuratively, a strong craving for something else, like knowledge or success.
How do you pronounce “thirst”?
“Thirst” is pronounced thurst (/θɝst/ in IPA).
How do you use “thirst” in a sentence?
Here is “thirst” used in a sentence: “A cold glass of water finally quenched his thirst.”
What is another word for “thirst”?
Words with a similar meaning to “thirst” include craving and longing.
What part of speech is “thirst”?
Depending on how it is used, “thirst” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “thirst” come from?
The word “thirst” comes from Latin. From Old English þurst, related to Latin torridus ("scorched, dry") — the underlying sense is dryness.
Is “thirst” a common word?
“Thirst” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “thirst” have?
“Thirst” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the feeling of needing something to drink.
What is the difference between thirst and hunger?
Thirst is the physical need for liquid, while hunger is the physical need for food; both are bodily signals triggered by different deficiencies. Figuratively, both words can also describe a strong desire, as in "a thirst for knowledge" or "a hunger for success."
What does "thirst for" mean when used figuratively?
When used figuratively, "thirst for" describes an intense craving or desire for something non-physical, such as knowledge, power, revenge, or adventure. It carries the same sense of urgency as physical thirst but applied to an ambition or goal.
Is "thirsty" used informally to mean something other than needing a drink?
Yes, in informal and slang usage "thirsty" can describe someone who seems overly eager or desperate for attention, approval, or a relationship. This figurative sense grew out of the word's core meaning of having a strong craving.