A thirst trap is a type of social media post intended to entice viewers sexually. It refers to a user's "thirst", a colloquialism likening sexual frustration to dehydration, implying desperation. Originating around the early 2010s, the meaning has changed over time.

What exactly is a thirst trap?

is the most basic definition of another thirst derivative on social media: the thirst trap. A refined twist on selfie culture, a thirst trap is often a photo used to entice a response, usually in the form of praise, compliments, or more explicit expressions of ardent desire.

What is an example of a thirst trap?

Thirst traps can look lots of different ways

Images or videos that are often suggestive but not overtly sexy. ... Text — either on its own, like in a story post, or accompanying an image — that suggests a flirtatious air, like “Who wants to come cuddle me to sleep?” or “Spending another Sunday alone.”