δίψος
dípsos
G1373 noun
SILEX Entry
Definition
A state or sensation of dryness in the mouth and throat resulting from lack of fluids; the physiological need or craving for liquid (thirst). In extended contexts, can refer metaphorically to strong desire or longing, particularly for relief, satisfaction, or fulfillment.
Semantic Range
thirst (physical need for water), dryness, strong desire or longing (especially for relief or satisfaction)
Root / Etymology
Uncertain; not clearly derived from an attested Greek root, though possibly related to the root διψ-, as seen in the verb διψάω (to thirst). May be of pre-Greek origin, since it appears as a simplex noun in both classical and later Greek.
Historical & Contextual Notes
The noun δίψος occurs already in classical Greek, denoting the literal sensation of thirst (Homer, historians, medical writers). In the Koine period, including the Septuagint and New Testament (e.g., John 19:28), it retains its primary literal meaning of physical thirst but may also be used figuratively for intense desire (as in poetic or rhetorical contexts). English Bible translations nearly always render it as 'thirst', which captures its ordinary sense but may obscure occasional metaphorical connotations. The word is distinct from διψάω (to be thirsty), being the noun form. Not to be confused with related terms for hunger (πείνη, λιμός).
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
of uncertain affinity; thirst:--thirst.
Root Family
δίψος (dipsos) — thirst, dryness, desire for drink
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G1373-01 |
δίψει | dipsei | N DAT N SG |
in thirst | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 total occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G1373-01 |
2 Corinthians 11:27 | δίψει | dipsei | N DAT N SG |
in thirst |