DRY Meaning and
Definition
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Dry is an adjective that can have several meanings depending on the context. When used to describe something, it typically refers to the absence of moisture or the state of being free from liquid or dampness. For example, dry clothes indicate that they have been completely dried and are no longer wet. Similarly, a dry climate or desert is characterized by aridity, with little to no rainfall and minimal humidity.
Moreover, dry can also describe something lacking in interest, excitement, or emotional depth. This sense of dryness is often associated with humor or wit that is characterized by a lack of exaggerated emotion or dramatic effect. Dry humor consists of subtle, witty remarks that may require a certain level of intellect or understanding to appreciate fully.
In terms of taste, dry refers to a lack of sweetness or the opposite of being moist. It can be used to describe beverages such as wine or champagne that are not sweet but rather have a sharp, slightly bitter taste.
Additionally, dry can describe someone's behavior or personality as being unsympathetic, unemotional, or formal. In this sense, it connotes a lack of warmth or friendliness and may be portrayed as being strict, serious, or reserved.
Overall, the different meanings of "dry" reflect its versatility as a word that can describe the absence or lack of various qualities, such as moisture, emotional intensity, sweetness, or warmth.
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• Free from water or moisture; not rainy not juicy; arid; thirsty; barren; void of interest, as applied to persons; sarcastic; severe; humorous.
• To free from water or moisture, as by wiping; to lose moisture.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for DRY *
- ry 20.5882352%
- drys 14.7058823%
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for DRY
Etymology of DRY
The word "dry" originates from the Middle English term "driȝe" or "drȳe", which can be traced back to the Old English word "drȳge". It has Germanic origins and is related to the Old High German word "trūc". Ultimately, the word can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "drugiz", which means "dry" or "thirsty".
Idioms with the word DRY
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watch paint dry
The idiom "watch paint dry" means to observe or do something that is extremely boring, dull, or uneventful. It refers to a situation or activity that lacks excitement, interest, or any significant development, similar to the slow and tedious process of watching paint dry.
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dry your eyes
The idiom "dry your eyes" means to stop crying or to stop being upset or emotional about something. It is often used as an expression of comfort or encouragement to someone who is in distress, urging them to stop shedding tears and regain composure.
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run dry
The idiom "run dry" means to deplete or exhaust completely, typically referring to the exhaustion of a resource, supply, or ideas.
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dry run
The idiom "dry run" refers to a practice or rehearsal of a particular process or procedure without actually carrying it out in a live or real-time situation. It involves going through all the necessary steps, actions, or variables in a simulated or controlled environment to test and familiarize oneself with the process before executing it in its actual context. It is typically done to anticipate and prepare for any potential problems, errors, or challenges that may arise, ensuring a smooth and successful execution when it truly matters.
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dry up
The idiom "dry up" typically means to run out or come to an end, particularly in relation to resources, ideas, or conversation. It can also refer to the loss or decrease of confidence or ability in performing a task or activity. Additionally, "dry up" can be used to describe the process of making someone stop talking or become speechless.
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dry spell
The idiom "dry spell" refers to a period of time in which there is a lack of success, productivity, or activity in a particular area of life. It typically describes a period of drought or barrenness, but when used figuratively, it can apply to various aspects such as creativity, dating, or business.
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dry out
The idiom "dry out" typically refers to the process of getting rid of excess moisture or becoming sober after consuming alcohol or drugs. It can also be used figuratively to mean recovering from an addiction or a period of excessive indulgence.
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dry sth up
The idiom "dry something up" refers to the act of causing or forcing something or someone to cease or stop completely. It can be used in various contexts to imply the end of a source, such as drying up a river, depleting a supply of resources, or shutting down a conversation or discussion.
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dry sth out
The idiom "dry something out" typically means to remove moisture or liquid from something, usually to make it dry or less wet. It can also be used metaphorically to describe the process of eliminating or reducing the negative effects of a substance or situation, often referring to the person or object becoming sober, clear-headed, or recovering from an addiction or affliction.
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dry sm out
The idiom "dry smb out" can have two different meanings depending on the context:
1. To make someone stop drinking alcohol excessively: This idiom refers to helping someone overcome their addiction to alcohol and encouraging them to quit or reduce their drinking habits.
2. To deplete or exhaust someone's financial resources: In this context, "dry sm out" means to drain or use up someone's financial reserves or resources.
It's important to note that the meaning of idioms can vary depending on the situation or culture, so it's always crucial to consider the context in which they are used.
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dry sm or sth off
The idiom "dry sm or sth off" means to remove moisture or wetness from something using a towel, cloth, or any other suitable means. It refers to the action of wiping or absorbing the liquid to make the object or surface dry.
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milk/suck somebody/something dry
The idiom "milk/suck somebody/something dry" means to exhaust or deplete someone or something of their resources, typically by taking advantage of them excessively or aggressively. It implies draining someone or something completely to the point of causing harm or leaving nothing left. It can refer to financial exploitation, excessive demands, or using up all available resources without consideration for the consequences.
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dry off
To "dry off" means to remove or eliminate moisture from oneself, typically by towel-drying or allowing time for air drying. This idiom is often used in contexts where a person has gotten wet or soaked, such as after swimming, taking a shower, or getting caught in the rain. It can also be used figuratively to describe the process of recovering or regaining composure after a challenging or upsetting situation.
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dry (one's) eyes
The idiom "dry one's eyes" means to stop crying or to cease shedding tears. It refers to the act of bringing an end to one's emotional distress or sorrow, and attempting to overcome feelings of sadness or grief.
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dry rot
The idiom "dry rot" refers to a state of decay or deterioration, typically in something organic, that occurs when it is deprived of moisture. It is often used metaphorically to describe a situation where something is slowly falling apart, losing its vitality, or becoming obsolete due to neglect or lack of maintenance.
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dry-gulch
The idiom "dry-gulch" is often used to describe a deceptive or treacherous act of ambushing or betraying someone, typically by attacking them from behind or when they are at a disadvantage. It refers to an act of aggression where the victim is caught off guard or unaware, much like being attacked in a dry gulch or canyon where there is no escape route.
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well's run dry, the
The idiom "well's run dry, the" refers to a situation where a previously abundant or reliable resource or supply is depleted or exhausted. It implies that something that was once plentiful or readily available is no longer accessible or available.
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like watching paint dry
The idiom "like watching paint dry" is used to describe something that is extremely boring, uninteresting, or tedious. It implies that the activity or situation being referred to is so dull that it is comparable to the slow and monotonous process of watching paint dry.
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squeeze sb dry
The idiom "squeeze sb dry" means to exploit or exhaust someone financially or emotionally by taking advantage of them until they have nothing left. It can refer to someone pressuring or manipulating another person into giving away all their money, resources, or energy.
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hang someone out to dry
The idiom "hang someone out to dry" means to abandon or betray someone, leaving them in a difficult or unfavorable situation without any support or assistance. It can also refer to exposing someone to criticism, blame, or punishment without providing any defense or protection for them.
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dry powder
The idiom "dry powder" refers to money or resources that are available for use or investment without any immediate obligations or commitments. It represents funds that are readily accessible for future endeavors or opportunities. This phrase is often used in a financial context, particularly in investment or business-related discussions.
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dry as a bone
The idiom "dry as a bone" means completely dry or devoid of any moisture. It is often used to describe something that is extremely dry, lacking humidity or wetness. This phrase can be used both literally, referring to actual objects or places, as well as figuratively, to describe someone's sense of humor, writing style, or even a situation devoid of emotion or excitement.
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hang (one) out to dry
To "hang (one) out to dry" means to abandon or betray someone, especially by leaving them in a difficult or vulnerable situation without any support or assistance. This idiom suggests that the person being "hung out to dry" is being left to face the negative consequences or challenges alone, without help from others who should be providing assistance or protection.
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suck someone dry
The idiom "suck someone dry" typically means to exploit or take advantage of someone's resources, energy, or abilities to the maximum extent, leaving them completely depleted or exhausted. This can refer to financial, emotional, or physical draining of someone's resources or capabilities.
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(as) exciting as watching paint dry
The idiom "(as) exciting as watching paint dry" is used to describe something as extremely boring, uninteresting, or lacking any form of excitement or entertainment. It implies that an activity or event is mundane, tedious, or uneventful, similar to the experience of observing paint as it slowly dries on a surface.
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watching paint dry
The definition of the idiom "watching paint dry" refers to a situation or activity that is extremely boring, monotonous, or tedious; often used to emphasize something being uninteresting or lacking excitement. It signifies a state of having nothing engaging or entertaining to do, likening it to the slow and uneventful process of watching paint dry.
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Put your trust in God, and keep your powder dry.
The idiom "Put your trust in God, and keep your powder dry" is a phrase that advises individuals to have faith in a higher power while also being prepared and cautious in their actions. It originates from a quote by Oliver Cromwell, an English military and political leader, during the English Civil War in the 17th century: "Put your trust in God, my boys, but mind to keep your powder dry." It signifies the importance of relying on a higher power for guidance and strength, but also emphasizes the need for practical preparation and self-reliance in order to navigate challenges effectively.
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be bone dry
The idiom "be bone dry" means to be completely devoid or lacking in moisture or liquid. It commonly refers to something being incredibly dry or unhydrated.
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dry something out
The idiom "dry something out" means to remove moisture or dryness from something, typically by using heat or allowing it to air-dry. It can also refer to the process of eliminating excess or unwanted moisture from an object or substance. Additionally, "dry something out" can be used figuratively to imply the action of removing excess or negative elements from a situation, environment, or person.
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leave sm high and dry
The idiom "leave someone high and dry" means to abandon or neglect someone in a difficult or helpless situation, without providing any assistance or support. It implies leaving someone without resources or help, often unexpectedly or when they are most in need.
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(as) dry as dust
The idiom "(as) dry as dust" means something that is dull, boring, or uninteresting. It is often used to describe a piece of writing, a speaker's style, or any content lacking liveliness, creativity, or substance.
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be home and dry
The idiom "be home and dry" means to successfully complete a task or reach a favorable outcome, usually after overcoming obstacles or challenges. It implies being in a secure and advantageous position or situation where success is assured.
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leave high and dry
The idiom "leave high and dry" refers to leaving someone in a difficult situation without any assistance, support, or resources. It means to abandon or betray someone when they are most in need, leaving them alone and helpless.
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hang out to dry
The idiom "hang out to dry" means to abandon or leave someone in a difficult, vulnerable, or exposed position, without providing any support or assistance. It refers to the act of metaphorically leaving someone out to dry, just like hanging wet clothes out to dry in the sun, leaving them open and defenseless.
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dry someone or something off
The idiom "dry someone or something off" refers to the act of removing moisture or water from someone or something typically by wiping or using a towel or other absorbent material.
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hang sm out to dry
The idiom "hang someone out to dry" means to abandon or betray someone, leaving them to face the consequences of their actions alone, without offering any help, support, or protection. It often implies leaving someone in a vulnerable or helpless situation without taking responsibility.
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hardly dry behind the ears
To say someone is "hardly dry behind the ears" means that the person is very young or inexperienced. It suggests that the person is still wet from birth (or having recently emerged from a situation similar to being wet), indicating their lack of experience, wisdom, or maturity.
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a dry run
The idiom "a dry run" refers to a practice or rehearsal of a specific event or process without any real consequences or actual execution. It is typically performed to test and evaluate the feasibility, effectiveness, or readiness of a plan, procedure, or system before implementing it in a real or critical situation.
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be as dry as a bone
The idiom "be as dry as a bone" means to be extremely dry or lacking moisture. It is often used to describe objects, environments, or situations where there is no moisture present.
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bleed (someone or something) dry
The idiom "bleed (someone or something) dry" refers to completely exploiting or depleting someone or something of their resources, usually for personal gain. It implies draining someone or something to the point of exhaustion or financial ruin.
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high and dry
The idiom "high and dry" refers to a situation where someone is left in a difficult or disadvantageous position, often due to being abandoned or without assistance. It conveys a sense of being helpless, stranded, or without the necessary support or resources to deal with a particular situation.
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bleed sb/sth dry
The idiom "bleed someone/something dry" means to exploit or drain someone or something of all their resources, usually referring to money, energy, or vitality. It implies the act of squeezing out as much as possible until nothing is left.
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be like watching paint dry
The idiom "be like watching paint dry" is used to describe a situation, event, or activity that is extremely boring, tedious, monotonous, or uninteresting. It implies that watching the process of paint drying, which is typically slow and uneventful, is a metaphorical representation of the lack of excitement or entertainment in the situation being discussed.
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home and dry
The idiom "home and dry" means to have successfully completed a task or reached a goal, often implying that the outcome is certain and there is no further risk or challenge. It suggests a feeling of security or confidence in having achieved a favorable outcome, similar to being safe and comfortable at home.
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squeeze somebody dry
The idiom "squeeze somebody dry" means to extract all possible benefits, resources, or money from someone, often leaving them exhausted, exploited, or without anything remaining. It implies exploiting someone to their limits, often for personal gain, without regard for their well-being or interests.
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leave you high and dry
The idiomatic expression "leave you high and dry" means to abandon or desert someone in a difficult or problematic situation without offering any assistance or support. It implies leaving someone in a position of vulnerability or helplessness without any recourse or aid.
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keep one's powder dry
The idiom "keep one's powder dry" originates from warfare and it means to be prepared and cautious, especially in uncertain situations. It advises someone to remain ready, vigilant, and to hold back from hasty actions until the right moment arises or more information is available.
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leave someone high and dry
The idiom "leave someone high and dry" means to abandon or leave someone in a difficult or vulnerable situation without providing any assistance or support.
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dry someone out
The idiom "dry someone out" usually refers to helping someone overcome their addiction to alcohol or drugs. It means to support or facilitate the process of detoxification and rehabilitation from substance abuse.
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bleed somebody dry
The idiom "bleed somebody dry" refers to the act of exploiting or taking advantage of someone for personal gain, particularly in terms of extracting as much money or resources from them as possible, leaving them financially or emotionally drained.
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bleed someone dry
The idiom "bleed someone dry" is an expression that means to exploit or drain someone of their financial resources or assets, often to the point of causing significant financial hardship or ruin. It implies taking advantage of someone's generosity, vulnerabilities, or trust for personal gain, leaving them financially depleted.
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bone dry, at as dry as a bone
The idiom "bone dry" or "as dry as a bone" refers to something that is completely devoid of moisture or liquid. It describes a state of extreme dryness or aridity, suggesting that there is absolutely no moisture present.
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the ink is not dry/still wet
The idiom "the ink is not dry/still wet" means that a situation or arrangement is not yet finalized or officially accepted. It is often used to suggest that there may still be changes or uncertainties in a decision, document, contract, or agreement that can potentially have an impact on the outcome.
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hang somebody out to dry
The idiom "hang somebody out to dry" means to abandon or expose someone, particularly in a difficult or vulnerable situation, without offering any support or assistance. It suggests leaving someone to face the negative consequences of their actions alone, without any help or protection.
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There wasn't a dry eye in the house.
The idiom "There wasn't a dry eye in the house" means that everyone present was crying or deeply moved by a particular event or emotional moment. It implies that the atmosphere or impact of the situation was so powerful that not a single person remained unaffected and tears were shed by all.
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be home and hosed, at be home and dry
The idiom "be home and hosed" (also known as "be home and dry") is an Australian and British phrase used to describe a situation where someone is confident or certain of success, victory, or completion of a task. It implies that all obstacles or challenges have been overcome and the outcome is favorable. The term originates from horse racing, where being hosed down indicated a horse had finished a race and returned to its stable. Thus, being "home and hosed" means to have successfully completed a task and reached a safe or secure position.
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bleed someone dry (or white)
The idiom "bleed someone dry (or white)" means to gradually extract or exploit all of someone's money or resources, causing them significant financial loss or exhaustion. It refers to a situation where someone is continuously drained or depleted, whether financially or metaphorically, leaving them with very little or nothing remaining.
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hang sb out to dry
The idiom "hang sb out to dry" means to leave someone in a difficult, vulnerable, or embarrassing situation without providing any assistance or support. It often implies abandoning or betraying someone, causing them to face the consequences of their actions alone.
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keep your powder dry
The idiom "keep your powder dry" means to be prepared, cautious, and ready for any future challenges or opportunities. It originated from the practice of keeping gunpowder dry during warfare, as damp or wet powder could fail to ignite properly when needed. Thus, the expression is often used as a metaphorical reminder to stay prepared and not waste resources or opportunities unnecessarily.
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dry behind the ears
The idiom "dry behind the ears" is used to describe someone who is inexperienced, naive, or lacking in maturity or wisdom. It suggests that the person is still like a young child who has recently emerged from the bath but hasn't fully dried yet.
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You never miss the water till the well runs dry
The idiom "You never miss the water till the well runs dry" means that people often do not appreciate or value something until it is no longer available to them. It implies that individuals may take things for granted and only realize their true worth or importance once they are gone.
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leave (one) high and dry
The idiom "leave (one) high and dry" means to abandon or forsake someone in a difficult or desperate situation without providing any help or support. It implies leaving the person feeling stranded or helpless with no assistance or options available to them.
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dry something up
The idiom "dry something up" means to close or stop a source of information, usually unintentionally or unwillingly, by saying or doing something that discourages further conversation or disclosure. It refers to the act of removing or limiting the flow of information or discussion.
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dry as dust
The idiom "dry as dust" means something that is extremely boring, dull, and lackluster. It refers to a subject, writing, or situation that lacks any spark, enthusiasm, or interesting elements, and feels tedious or lifeless.
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a dry spell
The idiom "a dry spell" is typically used to describe a period of time in which there is a lack of success, productivity, or occurrence of something desirable. It often refers to a prolonged period without rain in relation to agriculture, but can also be applied to various aspects of life such as work, creativity, relationships, or sports, indicating a period of little or no progress or achievement in that particular area.
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bone dry
The idiom "bone dry" refers to something that is completely dry, with all moisture or liquid removed, usually emphasizing a state of extreme dryness.
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as dry as a bone
The idiom "as dry as a bone" means to be completely dry or lack any moisture.
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not a dry eye in the house
The idiom "not a dry eye in the house" means that everyone present, usually in a situation involving strong emotion, is crying or deeply moved to a point where tears are shed. It suggests that the intensity of the emotions expressed has touched every individual, leaving no one unaffected.
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keep powder dry
The idiom "keep powder dry" means to be cautious, prepared, and ready for any situation or opportunity that may arise. It originates from the practice of keeping gunpowder dry, as it is unusable and ineffective when wet. Metaphorically, it emphasizes the importance of staying prepared and having resources or plans available in case they are needed in the future.
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come up dry
The idiom "come up dry" refers to a situation where someone or something is unable to produce the desired outcome, result, or information. It means to have an unsuccessful or unproductive attempt at finding or achieving something.
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be hung out to dry
The idiom "be hung out to dry" means to be abandoned, left alone, or put in a difficult or vulnerable position without any support or assistance. It signifies a situation where someone is left to face the negative consequences of their actions or decisions without any help or protection from others.
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suck sb/sth dry
The idiom "suck sb/sth dry" means to take advantage of or exploit someone or something to the fullest extent, often to the point of exhaustion or depletion. It suggests draining all resources or energy from the person or thing in question.
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leave sb high and dry
To "leave someone high and dry" means to abandon or neglect someone when they are in need of help or support, leaving them in a difficult or challenging situation without assistance.
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not dry behind the ears
The idiom "not dry behind the ears" refers to someone who is inexperienced, immature, or lacking in knowledge or expertise in a particular area. It suggests that the person is still wet behind the ears, similar to a newborn animal that has not fully dried off.
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bleed sb dry
The idiom "bleed sb dry" means to exploit or take advantage of someone, often financially, until they have nothing left or are left impoverished. It refers to systematically draining someone's resources or assets, leaving them in a desperate or helpless situation.
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exciting as watching paint dry
The idiom "exciting as watching paint dry" is used to describe something that is extremely dull, boring, or uneventful. It implies that the activity or situation being referred to lacks any form of interest, stimulation, or entertainment, just like observing paint as it slowly dries, which is typically a very tedious and unexciting process.
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not a dry eye
The idiom "not a dry eye" refers to a situation or event where everyone present is crying or extremely emotional. It implies that there is not a single person who is not affected emotionally, resulting in tears flowing from everyone's eyes.
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*exciting as watching (the) paint dry
This idiom is used to describe something as extremely boring, dull, or uninteresting. It implies that the activity or event in question is so uneventful or tedious that it is comparable to the process of watching paint dry, which is considered one of the most boring and unexciting tasks.
Similar spelling words for DRY
- draw,
- drey,
- cry,
- dray,
- dory,
- try,
- day,
- Dr.,
- pry,
- drye,
- drew,
- fry.
Conjugate verb Dry
CONDITIONAL PERFECT
I
would have dried
you
would have dried
he/she/it
would have dried
we
would have dried
they
would have dried
I
would have dry
you
would have dry
he/she/it
would have dry
we
would have dry
they
would have dry
CONDITIONAL PERFECT PROGRESSIVE
I
would have been drying
you
would have been drying
he/she/it
would have been drying
we
would have been drying
they
would have been drying
CONDITIONAL PRESENT
I
would dry
you
would dry
he/she/it
would dry
we
would dry
they
would dry
CONDITIONAL PRESENT PROGRESSIVE
I
would be drying
you
would be drying
he/she/it
would be drying
we
would be drying
they
would be drying
FUTURE
I
will dry
you
will dry
he/she/it
will dry
we
will dry
they
will dry
FUTURE CONTINUOUS
I
will be drying
you
will be drying
he/she/it
will be drying
we
will be drying
they
will be drying
FUTURE PERFECT
I
will have dried
you
will have dried
he/she/it
will have dried
we
will have dried
they
will have dried
FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
will have been drying
you
will have been drying
he/she/it
will have been drying
we
will have been drying
they
will have been drying
IMPERATIVE
you
dry
we
let´s dry
to dry
PAST CONTINUOUS
I
was drying
you
were drying
he/she/it
was drying
we
were drying
they
were drying
PAST PARTICIPLE
dried
PAST PERFECT
I
had dried
you
had dried
he/she/it
had dried
we
had dried
they
had dried
PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
had been drying
you
had been drying
he/she/it
had been drying
we
had been drying
they
had been drying
PRESENT
I
dry
you
dry
he/she/it
dries
we
dry
they
dry
PRESENT CONTINUOUS
I
am drying
you
are drying
he/she/it
is drying
we
are drying
they
are drying
PRESENT PARTICIPLE
drying
PRESENT PERFECT
I
have dried
you
have dried
he/she/it
has dried
we
have dried
they
have dried
PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
have been drying
you
have been drying
he/she/it
has been drying
we
have been drying
they
have been drying
PRESENT SUBJUNCTIVE
he/she/it
dry
SIMPLE PAST
I
dried
you
dried
he/she/it
dried
we
dried
they
dried
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