Definition

Causing something to become very dry or thirsty, often due to heat or lack of moisture.

Example

The parching sun made it difficult to stay outside for long.

Conversation

I can't believe how parching the weather has been lately.

I know, right? It's hard to stay hydrated.

I've been drinking so much water to cope with this parching heat.

Same here! Let's make sure to carry water bottles when we go outside.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To make something very dry, especially by removing moisture or heat.

Example

The sun was parching the ground, making it hard and cracked.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I forgot to bring water, and now I'm really parching from the heat.

That sounds uncomfortable! We should find a place to cool off.

Yeah, I can't believe I did that on such a hot day.

Root Explanation

**Parching** → It is formed from "parch" (from Old English *purcan*, meaning to dry out or wither) and the suffix "-ing" (indicating the action or process of). The word "parching" refers to the process of drying out or becoming extremely dry, often due to heat.

Memory Tip

Think of the Old English word for drying out, 'purcan', to remember that 'parching' means the action of making something very dry.

Visually Confused Words