athirst

adjective · Old English

A word so elegant it almost makes the act of gulping water feel like a Victorian drama.

Possessing a profound or literal desire for liquid nourishment.

In the wild

“He stood by the dry well, gazing down into the abyss and feeling hopelessly athirst.”

Origin

An Old English formation, a-thyrst, it has endured since the 10th century to convey deep longing.