thirst

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A thirst is an uncomfortable feeling when your body needs more water.

When someone says they have a big thirst after running or playing sports, it usually means their mouth and throat feel dry because they lost too much sweat. You might also hear people talk about having a thirst for adventure, which is different - it's a desire to try new things, explore new places, or experience life in a more exciting way.

How common is "thirst"?

Word thirst is considered rare in modern English.
It has a balanced usage among all categories: speech, fiction, newspapers and academic texts.

Definitions

noun

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.
Example: We developed a great thirst during our hike.
The condition producing the sensation of thirst.
Example: If you go out in the desert for long without water, the thirst can drive you mad.
(figuratively) A want and eager desire (for something); a craving or longing.
Example: She had a real thirst for news and that greatly helped her career.
(figuratively) Sexual lust.
Example: He had a thirst for her and she had the same for him.