Top 40 Slang For Desperate – Meaning & Usage

Feeling a little desperate to stay ahead of the curve with the latest slang? Look no further! Our team has scoured the depths of the internet to bring you a list of the top slang for desperate that will have you feeling in the know. Get ready to upgrade your vocabulary and impress your friends with these trendy expressions.

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1. Thirsty

This term is often used to describe someone who is overly eager or desperate for attention, especially from the opposite sex. It can also refer to someone who is desperate for validation or approval.

For example, “She’s always posting revealing photos on social media, she’s so thirsty for attention.”
In a conversation about dating, someone might say, “I can’t stand guys who are so thirsty, always trying to impress.”
A friend might jokingly tease, “You’re so thirsty for likes, you’ll do anything for a selfie.”

2. Clingy

This term is used to describe someone who is excessively dependent on another person, often to the point of being suffocating or possessive. It can also refer to someone who is overly needy or demanding of attention.

For instance, “She’s so clingy, she can’t stand being apart from her boyfriend for even a minute.”
In a discussion about relationships, someone might say, “I can’t handle clingy partners, I need my space.”
A friend might complain, “He’s always texting me and asking where I am, he’s so clingy!”

3. Needy

This term is used to describe someone who is constantly seeking validation, reassurance, or attention from others. It can also refer to someone who is emotionally dependent and requires constant support.

For example, “She’s so needy, always asking for compliments and reassurance.”
In a conversation about friendships, someone might say, “I can’t handle needy friends who constantly need my attention.”
A person might vent, “My partner is so needy, they always need me to be there for them.”

4. Hungry

This term is often used metaphorically to describe someone who is extremely eager or desperate for something, whether it’s success, fame, attention, or even food.

For instance, “He’s hungry for success, always working hard and pushing himself.”
In a discussion about ambition, someone might say, “You have to be hungry for success if you want to achieve your goals.”
A friend might joke, “I’m so hungry for pizza, I could eat a whole pie by myself!”

5. Parched

This term is often used metaphorically to describe someone who is extremely thirsty or desperate for something, whether it’s attention, validation, or even love. It can also refer to someone who is desperate for a drink.

For example, “She’s so parched for attention, she’ll do anything to be noticed.”
In a conversation about relationships, someone might say, “He’s so parched for love, he jumps into relationships without really knowing the person.”
A person might complain, “I’m so parched, I haven’t had a drink all day!”

6. Starving

This term is often used to describe a strong feeling of hunger or a desire for food.

For example, “I’m so starving, I could eat a horse!”
Someone might say, “I skipped lunch today, so I’m absolutely starving.”
A person might complain, “I’ve been dieting all week and I’m still starving all the time.”

7. Rattled

This slang term is used to describe a state of being nervous, anxious, or unsettled.

For instance, “I have a big presentation tomorrow and I’m feeling rattled.”
A person might say, “I was really rattled after that car accident.”
Someone might ask, “Are you okay? You seem a little rattled.”

8. Craving

This term is used to describe a strong desire or longing for something, often related to food or a specific experience.

For example, “I’m craving pizza tonight, let’s order some.”
A person might say, “I have a craving for chocolate, I need to satisfy it.”
Someone might ask, “What are you craving right now?”

9. Itching

This slang term is used to describe a strong desire or urge to do something.

For instance, “I’m itching to go on vacation, I need a break.”
A person might say, “I’m itching to try that new restaurant everyone’s talking about.”
Someone might ask, “What are you itching to do this weekend?”

10. Jonsing

This term is used to describe a strong craving or longing for something, often related to a specific substance or experience.

For example, “I’m jonsing for a cigarette right now.”
A person might say, “I’ve been jonsing for a vacation, I need to get away.”
Someone might ask, “Are you jonsing for a drink? Let’s go to the bar.”

11. Fiending

To “fiend” means to have a strong and intense craving or desire for something. It can be used to describe someone who is desperate for a particular thing or experience.

For example, “I’m fiending for a slice of pizza right now.”
A person might say, “I’m fiending for some adventure. Let’s go skydiving!”
In a conversation about coffee, someone might say, “I’m fiending for a good cup of joe. Do you know any good cafes around here?”

12. Thirsting

To “thirst” is to desire something intensely, often used in the context of wanting attention, validation, or romantic interest from someone.

For instance, “She’s been thirsting over that celebrity for months.”
In a discussion about social media, someone might say, “People are constantly thirsting for likes and followers.”
A person might admit, “I’m thirsting for a promotion at work. I’ve been working hard and I really want to move up.”

13. Hankering

To have a “hankering” means to have a strong and persistent desire or craving for something.

For example, “I’ve got a hankering for some ice cream.”
In a conversation about travel, someone might say, “I’ve got a hankering to explore a new country.”
A person might confess, “I’ve had a hankering to learn how to play the guitar. Maybe it’s time to finally take some lessons.”

14. Pining

To “pine” is to have a deep and intense longing or yearning for something or someone.

For instance, “She’s been pining for her ex-boyfriend ever since they broke up.”
In a conversation about missed opportunities, someone might say, “I’m still pining for the job I didn’t get.”
A person might admit, “I’ve been pining for a sense of purpose in my life. I’m still searching for what truly fulfills me.”

15. Yearning

To “yearn” is to have a strong and intense longing or desire for something or someone.

For example, “He yearns for a life filled with adventure and travel.”
In a discussion about love, someone might say, “I yearn for a deep and meaningful connection with someone.”
A person might confess, “I’ve been yearning for a change in my career. I want to pursue something that truly excites me.”

16. Longing

When someone is longing for something, they have a deep and intense desire or yearning for it.

For example, “I’m longing for a vacation to a tropical island.”
A person might say, “I’ve been longing for a chance to meet my favorite celebrity.”
Someone might express their longing by saying, “I’m longing for a time when things go back to normal.”

17. Itchy

When someone is feeling itchy, it means they are eager or impatient for something to happen or for a specific outcome.

For instance, “I’m getting itchy waiting for the concert to start.”
A person might say, “I’m itchy for the weekend to arrive so I can relax.”
Someone might express their itchy feelings by saying, “I’m itchy to find out the results of the competition.”

18. Gotta have it

When someone says they “gotta have it,” it means they have a strong desire or need for something.

For example, “I saw those new shoes and I just gotta have them.”
A person might say, “I gotta have that latest tech gadget.”
Someone might express their strong desire by saying, “I’m in love with that car, I gotta have it.”

19. Dying for

When someone says they are “dying for” something, it means they are eager or desperate for it.

For instance, “I’m dying for a slice of pizza, I’m so hungry.”
A person might say, “I’m dying for a vacation, I really need a break.”
Someone might express their desperation by saying, “I’m dying for some good news, things have been tough lately.”

20. Desperate AF

When someone is described as “desperate AF,” it means they are extremely desperate.

For example, “She’s looking for a job and she’s desperate AF.”
A person might say, “I’m desperate AF to find my lost wallet, it had all my important cards.”
Someone might describe their desperation by saying, “I’m desperate AF for a solution to this problem, it’s causing me a lot of stress.”

21. Dying

When someone is “dying” in a slang context, it means they are extremely desperate for something or in a desperate situation. It can be used to emphasize the intensity of the desperation.

For example, “I’m dying for a cup of coffee right now, I haven’t slept in days.”
In a conversation about finding a job, someone might say, “I’m dying to get hired, I need the money.”
A person discussing their love life might say, “I’m dying to find someone who truly understands me.”

22. Clutching at straws

When someone is “clutching at straws,” it means they are trying anything and everything in a desperate attempt to find a solution or achieve a desired outcome. The phrase refers to the act of grasping at individual pieces of straw in a haystack, hoping to find something useful.

For instance, “After failing multiple times, she’s now just clutching at straws to salvage her reputation.”
In a discussion about a failing business, someone might say, “They’re clutching at straws by launching a last-minute sale.”
A person talking about their friend’s desperate dating attempts might say, “He’s been clutching at straws, going on blind dates with anyone who shows the slightest interest.”

23. Gasping

When someone is “gasping,” it means they are desperately struggling or in a state of extreme desperation. The term can convey a sense of urgency and a need for immediate help or relief.

For example, “She was gasping for air after running a marathon.”
In a conversation about financial difficulties, someone might say, “I’m gasping for some extra cash, I can barely make ends meet.”
A person discussing a difficult situation might say, “The company is gasping for survival, they need a breakthrough soon.”

24. Frenzied

When someone is “frenzied,” it means they are in a state of frantic desperation. The term implies a lack of control or rational thinking due to the intensity of the desperation.

For instance, “The crowd became frenzied as they desperately tried to get a glimpse of the celebrity.”
In a discussion about a competitive exam, someone might say, “The students were frenzied, studying day and night to pass.”
A person talking about their friend’s desperate search for a job might say, “He’s been frenzied, sending out resumes to every company he can find.”

25. Grasping

When someone is “grasping,” it means they are desperately seeking something or trying to hold onto something, often due to a sense of desperation. The term can imply a level of uncertainty or insecurity in the pursuit.

For example, “She’s grasping at any opportunity that comes her way, hoping for a breakthrough.”
In a conversation about a failing relationship, someone might say, “He’s grasping at straws, trying to salvage what’s left.”
A person discussing their financial situation might say, “I’m grasping for any source of income, I can’t afford to be picky.”

26. Frantic

This word describes a state of extreme urgency or desperation. It implies a sense of chaos and a lack of control.

For example, “She was frantic to find her lost keys before the taxi arrived.”
In a stressful situation, someone might say, “I’m feeling frantic trying to meet this deadline.”
A person might describe their search for a job as, “I’ve been in a frantic search for employment for months.”

27. Pleading

This term refers to the act of desperately asking for something, often with a sense of desperation or urgency.

For instance, “He was pleading with his boss for a raise.”
In a difficult situation, someone might say, “I’m pleading with you to help me find a solution.”
A person might describe their actions as, “I’ve been pleading with the bank to reconsider my loan application.”

28. Urgent

This word describes a situation or request that requires immediate attention or action. It conveys a sense of importance and necessity.

For example, “I have an urgent message for you.”
In a time-sensitive matter, someone might say, “I need your urgent assistance.”
A person might describe a critical task as, “I have an urgent deadline to meet.”

29. Clamoring

This term refers to a state of loud and persistent demand or outcry. It implies a sense of urgency and desperation in seeking attention or action.

For instance, “The protesters were clamoring for justice.”
In a heated debate, someone might say, “The audience was clamoring for answers.”
A person might describe a crowd’s reaction as, “The fans were clamoring for an encore.”

30. Desiring

This word describes a strong feeling of wanting or longing for something. It conveys a sense of desperation and intense desire.

For example, “She was desiring a sense of belonging.”
In a romantic context, someone might say, “I’m desiring a deep connection with someone.”
A person might describe their aspirations as, “I’ve been desiring success in my career.”

31. Ratchet

This term is often used to describe someone who is acting in an irrational or reckless manner. It can also be used to describe something that is of poor quality or in disrepair.

For example, “She went ratchet and started throwing things around the room.”
In a discussion about music, someone might say, “That song is so ratchet, I can’t stand it.”
Another person might comment, “The party last night was ratchet, with people breaking things and causing chaos.”

32. Grasping at straws

This phrase is used to describe someone who is trying to find a solution or make a connection despite having very few options or chances of success.

For instance, “He’s grasping at straws, trying to find evidence to support his theory.”
In a conversation about job hunting, someone might say, “I’ve been applying everywhere, but I feel like I’m just grasping at straws.”
Another person might comment, “She’s grasping at straws by reaching out to her ex for help.”

33. Cracked

This term is used to describe someone who is behaving in an erratic or irrational manner, often due to mental instability or drug use.

For example, “He’s completely cracked, talking to himself and seeing things.”
In a discussion about a strange behavior, someone might say, “I think she’s cracked, the way she laughs at inappropriate times.”
Another person might comment, “The guy on the street corner was acting cracked, shouting at cars passing by.”

34. Wild-eyed

This term is used to describe someone who has a frantic or desperate look in their eyes, often due to fear, stress, or anxiety.

For instance, “She looked wild-eyed as she tried to find her lost child.”
In a conversation about a high-pressure situation, someone might say, “He was wild-eyed with panic during the final seconds of the game.”
Another person might comment, “The witness was wild-eyed as she recounted the traumatic event.”

35. Panic-stricken

This phrase is used to describe someone who is in a state of extreme panic or fear, often due to a sudden or unexpected event.

For example, “The crowd became panic-stricken when they heard the loud bang.”
In a discussion about a dangerous situation, someone might say, “I was panic-stricken when I realized I was lost in the woods.”
Another person might comment, “The students were panic-stricken during the school lockdown drill.”

36. Agonizing

When someone is in a state of agony or extreme distress. It can also be used to describe a situation that is causing intense suffering or anguish.

For example, “She was in an agonizing state of despair after losing her job.”
In a discussion about a difficult decision, someone might say, “It was an agonizing choice, but I had to do what was best for me.”
A person describing a painful experience might say, “The pain was so agonizing that I couldn’t move.”

37. Despairing

When someone is in a state of despair or hopelessness. It can also be used to describe a person who has given up or feels overwhelmed by a situation.

For instance, “He looked despairing after receiving the bad news.”
In a conversation about a challenging situation, someone might say, “I feel despairing, like there’s no way out.”
A person describing their emotions might say, “I’ve been feeling despairing lately, like nothing is going right.”

38. Forsaken

When someone is left alone or abandoned by others. It can also be used to describe a place that is empty or devoid of life.

For example, “She felt forsaken by her friends who had stopped talking to her.”
In a discussion about a desolate landscape, someone might say, “The forsaken town was eerie and haunting.”
A person describing their feelings might say, “I feel forsaken and alone, like no one cares about me.”

39. Abandoned

When someone or something is left behind or discarded. It can also be used to describe a person who has been rejected or neglected by others.

For instance, “The abandoned house was filled with cobwebs and dust.”
In a conversation about a relationship, someone might say, “I feel abandoned by my partner, like they don’t care about me anymore.”
A person describing their emotions might say, “I feel abandoned and lost, like no one understands me.”

40. Stranded

When someone is left in a difficult or helpless situation without any means of assistance or escape. It can also be used to describe a person who is stuck or unable to move.

For example, “They were stranded on the side of the road with a flat tire.”
In a discussion about travel mishaps, someone might say, “I got stranded at the airport due to a canceled flight.”
A person describing their situation might say, “I feel stranded and helpless, like there’s no way out.”