High and dry meaning

The phrase "high and dry" means abandoned or left without help in a difficult situation.


High and dry definitions

Word backwards hgih dna yrd
Part of speech In the phrase "high and dry," "high" is an adjective and "dry" is an adjective.
Syllabic division high and dry
Plural The plural of the phrase "high and dry" is "high and dry." The phrase does not change when used in its plural form.
Total letters 10
Vogais (2) i,a
Consonants (6) h,g,n,d,r,y

When someone is left "high and dry," it means they have been left in a difficult situation without any help or support. This phrase is often used to describe a person who has been abandoned or stranded without any assistance.

Origin of the Phrase

The origin of the phrase "high and dry" dates back to the 17th century and has nautical roots. In sailing terms, "high and dry" referred to a ship that was left stranded on shore when the tide went out, leaving it perched up high on the dry land.

Meaning and Usage

Today, the phrase is used more figuratively to describe a person who has been left in a difficult situation with no help in sight. It conveys a sense of abandonment and vulnerability, highlighting the feeling of being alone and powerless in a challenging moment.

Being left "high and dry" can be a distressing experience, as it often means having to fend for oneself in a tough situation without the support of others. It can lead to feelings of isolation and helplessness, making it crucial for individuals to find ways to cope and seek assistance if needed.

Examples of Use

1. After his friends left him high and dry at the party, John had to find his own way home.

2. The company left its employees high and dry when it suddenly shut down without warning, leaving many without a job.

Overall, being left "high and dry" is a challenging experience that can test one's resilience and ability to navigate tough situations. It serves as a reminder of the importance of support networks and looking out for one another in times of need.


High and dry Examples

  1. After the boat capsized, the crew was left high and dry on the deserted island.
  2. When the bus broke down, the passengers were stranded high and dry in the middle of nowhere.
  3. Without a backup plan, the team was left high and dry when their leader resigned unexpectedly.
  4. The hikers were caught in a sudden storm and found themselves high and dry without proper shelter.
  5. The new homeowners were left high and dry when their contractor abandoned the project halfway through.
  6. After missing the last train, Sarah was left high and dry with no way to get home.
  7. The employees felt high and dry after the company announced layoffs due to budget cuts.
  8. With no umbrella during the rainstorm, Jack was left high and dry waiting for the downpour to stop.
  9. The student was left high and dry after forgetting to bring their homework to class.
  10. After losing his wallet, Tom was high and dry with no money for dinner.


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  • Updated 24/04/2024 - 14:32:30