Desperate for water (7) - Crossword Clue
Answer: PARCHED
Understanding "Desperate for Water" as a Crossword Clue
- When you encounter "desperate for water" in a crossword puzzle, the answer is almost always PARCHED (7 letters).
- This clue uses a straightforward definition approach, where the clue phrase directly describes the state of being extremely thirsty or dried out from lack of water.
Why PARCHED Fits Perfectly
- PARCHED means severely dried out or extremely thirsty, making it the ideal match for "desperate for water."
- The word captures both the physical sensation of needing water urgently and the condition of something that has been depleted of moisture.
- In crossword puzzles, setters often use dramatic descriptive phrases like "desperate for" to indicate an extreme state, which aligns perfectly with the intensity conveyed by "parched."
Common Crossword Variations
- Crossword constructors love to vary their cluing style while pointing to the same answer.
- You might see "desperate for water" appear as "extremely thirsty," "dying for a drink," "bone-dry," or "severely dehydrated."
- All of these variations lead solvers toward PARCHED because they describe the same fundamental concept of extreme water deprivation.
Desperate for water (7) - 7 Little Words - FAQs
Q: Are there other 7-letter answers for "desperate for water"?
A: PARCHED is by far the most common answer. While GASPING could theoretically work in some contexts, it's less specific to water deprivation and rarely used for this clue.
Q: Can "parched" refer to things other than thirst?
A: Yes! Land can be parched during droughts, crops can become parched without irrigation, and throats can feel parched from talking too much. Crosswords exploit this versatility.
Q: How do I know if it's PARCHED versus DRIED UP?
A: The letter count is your guide. "Desperate for water (7)" specifically calls for a 7-letter word as one unit, making PARCHED perfect. DRIED UP would need spaces or hyphens.
Q: Is this clue difficulty level beginner-friendly?
A: Yes, this is considered a straightforward definition clue, making it accessible to solvers of all levels. The direct relationship between clue and answer helps newer solvers build confidence.
Q: Do British and American crosswords differ in using this clue?
A: PARCHED appears in both British and American puzzles with equal frequency. It's a universally understood term across English-speaking regions, making it a reliable crossword staple.
