English · Word Candidate

thirst

/θɜːst/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: thirsts · thirsting · thirsted

Sense 1

Meaning · English

A sensation of dryness in the throat associated with a craving for liquids, produced by deprivation of drink, or by some other cause (such as fear, excitement, etc.) which stops the secretion of the pharyngeal mucous membrane.

Noun

Examples

We developed a great thirst during our hike.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

The condition producing the sensation of thirst.

Noun

Examples

If you go out in the desert for long without water, the thirst can drive you mad.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

To be thirsty.

Verb

Examples

The people thirsted there for water.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 4

Meaning · English

To desire vehemently.

Verb

Examples

I thirst for knowledge and education will sate me.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “thirst” mean?

Is “thirst” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.