The word "parched" is pronounced /pɑːrtʃt/. This word is spelled with the letters "p-a-r-c-h-e-d" and it refers to a state of extreme dryness, especially when referring to the ground or the throat. Interestingly, the "ch" sound in this word is actually a combination of the letters "c" and "h" to represent the "tʃ" sound. This is because the word "parch" comes from the Old French word "perchier", which was pronounced with a "tʃ" sound. Over time, the spelling morphed into the current version we know today.
Parched is an adjective that describes a state or condition of extreme dryness or dehydration. When something is parched, it has been deprived of moisture or water, typically due to a lack of rainfall, excessive heat, or prolonged exposure to dry conditions. This term can be used to refer to both natural environments and living organisms.
In the context of geography or landscape, parched often describes areas that are arid or desert-like, where water is scarce and plant life struggles to survive. Such regions are devoid of moisture, resulting in cracked earth, withered vegetation, and a general lack of water sources. Parched landscapes may feature barren sand dunes, cracked clay soil, and a distinct absence of flowing rivers or lush vegetation.
When referring to living organisms, parched describes the physical condition of extreme thirst or dehydration. This can apply to humans, animals, or plants that have not received enough water to maintain their normal functioning. Signs of parchedness in living organisms include dry mouth, cracked lips, wilted or withered appearance, and a desperate need for hydration.
Overall, the term "parched" portrays a severe and often uncomfortable state of dryness or dehydration, whether it is applied to the environment or living beings.
Dried to excess.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* 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.
The word "parched" is derived from the Old English word "pearc", which originally meant "to burn" or "to scorch". The term later evolved to specifically refer to the drying or dehydration of a substance, such as grains or soil. The modern usage of "parched" to describe extreme thirst or extreme dryness can be traced back to this original meaning.