dry
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /draɪ/
KK: /draɪ/
adjective
Definition
Not wet; free from moisture or liquid.
Example
The ground was dry after several days without rain.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: drier
Superlative: driest
Conversation
Did you try that new restaurant downtown?
No, I haven't. Is the food good?
It's pretty tasty, but the bread was a bit too dry for my liking.
That's a bummer! I prefer my bread fresh and soft.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
arid
barren
desiccated
Antonyms
wet
moist
damp
intransitive verb
Definition
To lose moisture or become free from liquid.
Example
The clothes will dry in the warm breeze.
Tense Forms
Past: dried
Past Participle: dried
Conversation
Did you leave the clothes outside to dry?
Yeah, I did! They should be nice and fresh when we get back.
I hope they dry quickly; it looks like rain later.
noun
Definition
A state or condition where there is little to no moisture or water present.
Example
The dry in the desert made it hard for plants to grow.
Conversation
Have you ever been to a dry place like the desert?
No, I haven't, but it sounds really interesting.
I heard that the dry air can be quite refreshing at night.
transitive verb
Definition
To remove moisture from something, making it free of wetness.
Example
I need to dry the clothes after washing them.
Tense Forms
Past: dried
Past Participle: dried
Conversation
Have you ever tried to dry herbs at home?
Yeah, I just hang them upside down in the kitchen.
That's a good idea! I usually put mine in the oven to dry them faster.
Root Explanation
The word 'dry' originates from Old English 'drȳge', meaning free from moisture or not wet. It describes the state of being without water or liquid.
Memory Tip
Think of something that is 'free from moisture' — that's what 'dry' means.
Visually Confused Words
dray
dory
adry