adj
needy
NEE-dee
adj
1
Lacking basic necessities; poor.
"The charity distributes food to needy families."
2
Emotionally dependent; constantly seeking reassurance or attention.
"He became needy and insecure after the breakup."
How to Use Needy
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEither genuinely poor and lacking necessities, or emotionally clingy and dependent on others for reassurance.
Common mistake
In relationships, "needy" is usually negative (clingy, insecure); don't confuse it with simply "needing help," which isn't a character flaw.
Common pairings
needy families
act needy
clingy and needy
Word Forms
needier comparative, neediest superlative
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The charity distributes food to _____ families.
Etymology
From Old English nēdiġ, from "need" + -y.