Needy
'niːdi
Definitions
2 meaningsLacking the basic necessities of life, such as food, shelter, and clothing, often due to poverty.
'niːdi
Lacking the necessities of life, especially food, shelter, and clothing; impoverished.
The organization focuses on providing aid to needy children in developing countries.
💡 Simply: When someone's 'needy,' it means they don't have enough of the basic things they need to live comfortably, like food or a place to sleep. Imagine a kid who doesn't have any snacks at the playground—they're needy!
👶 For kids: When someone is needy, it means they don't have enough of the things they need, like food or a house.
More Examples
She dedicated her life to helping the needy and homeless.
The soup kitchen serves hot meals to the needy every day.
How It's Used
"The charity provides support to needy families in the community."
"Governments often implement programs to assist needy individuals and families during economic downturns."
Constantly seeking affection, attention, or reassurance from others; excessively dependent emotionally.
'niːdi
Excessively dependent on someone emotionally or for affection.
Her needy behavior drove away many of her friends.
💡 Simply: If you call someone 'needy,' it means they really, really want attention and reassurance. They might call or text all the time, or always need to know that you like them. Imagine a friend who constantly asks, 'Do you like me? Are we still friends?' That's needy!
👶 For kids: When someone is needy, it means they want a lot of attention and want to be with you all the time.
More Examples
He felt suffocated by her constant demands for affection.
A partner who is too needy can strain a relationship.
How It's Used
"Her needy behavior stemmed from childhood insecurities."
"He found her constant need for reassurance a bit needy."
Synonyms
From Middle English *nedi*, derived from Old English *nēod* (need) + -y (suffix). The word developed to describe someone lacking basic necessities and later, someone seeking affection or attention.
The word 'needy' has been used in English since the 14th century, initially primarily to describe people lacking basic resources.
Memory tip
Think of someone who NEEDS help, like food or a place to live.