A hot guy walks past you and your friend, and she turns to you and says, "He's a tall glass of water?" What does she mean? Is he carrying a bottle of water or something?
This post unpacks everything you need to know about this idiomatic phrase's meaning, origin, and use in conversation.
Tall Glass of Water Meaning
A "tall glass of water" refers to a good-looking man that you find attractive. The saying applies more to women than men, but you can use it interchangeably if you want.
When you're calling someone a "tall glass of water," you're referring to them being irresistibly attractive or a ten-out-often on the good looks scale. The phrase is popular in younger generations and in sexually active people.
"Tall glass of water" appears in many memes, usually with men in a seductive pose. However, there are several memes referring to the "glass of water" as a woman.
It's a common phrase, and you probably hear your girlfriends use it all the time when they are out at the club or bar or when watching TV.
Tall Glass of Water Example Usage
"Look at that hottie over there; he's a tall glass of water."
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Stacey: "Did you see Kim's bother when he arrived back from the army? He's ripped and single, and I think I'm going to ask him out."
Gina: "He's a tall glass of water for sure."
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Tarryn: "
Jackie: "I'll just sit here until I see a tall glass of water walk by."
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Sylvie: "Why are you hitting on my boyfriend right in front of me?"
Jenna: "I think he's a tall glass of water, and I'm feeling thirsty, girl."
Tall Glass of Water Origin
This idiomatic expression originates from another colloquial phrase, "tall, dark, and handsome." This original format of the phrase was popular in the 80s and 90s, with women using it to describe a good-looking man.
However, in the 2000s, it became popular to describe a woman lusting after a man as "thirsty." As a result, they would need a tall glass of water to quench their thirst, or lust, in this case. Some language experts think that the phrase originates from the Southwestern United States.
The temperatures can reach uncomfortably hot levels in this region, causing rapid dehydration and thirst. As a result, a tall glass of water was a delightful beverage, giving the person a break from the heat.
When we feel thirsty, our need for water is an animalistic part of our nature. Therefore, using the expression "tall glass of water" to describe a handsome man means that you find them so attractive you can't help yourself.
Phrases Similar to Tall Glass of Water
- Good-looking man.
- Attractive man.
- Handsome man.
Phrases Opposite to Tall Glass of Water
- Dog ugly.
- Unattractive.
What is the Correct Saying?
- A tall glass of water.
Ways People May Say Tall Glass of Water Incorrectly
Some people may use the phrase to describe a beverage, or they may use it to describe an attractive woman. Both cases are the incorrect use of the phrase. You also wouldn't use the term in professional settings as it may seem inappropriate to refer to people's looks in professional settings.
Acceptable Ways to Phrase Tall Glass of Water
You can use the phrase "tall glass of water" when referring to attractive men. The term is suitable for social use, and most people will understand what you're saying when you use the idiom. You can use the phrase when talking to the person your find attractive or when describing the person's appearance to someone else.