What does juicy mean?
Juicy is an adjective that literally means full of juice or moisture, describing food that is succulent and appetizing. It is also used informally for stories, gossip, or details that are especially interesting or revealing, and for opportunities or business arrangements that promise substantial financial reward. These figurative meanings make the word vivid and conversational rather than formal or neutral. A listener may understand a “juicy story” as a compelling account, a “juicy tip” as an intriguing piece of advice, and a “juicy contract” as a lucrative agreement. The word is used in both British and American English, although the figurative senses are particularly characteristic of informal speech. Its usefulness lies in its ability to suggest freshness, sensory appeal, curiosity, and potential profit in a single compact expression.
adjectiveFull of juice or moisture; appetizingly succulent. Informally, it also means interesting, exciting, or revealing, especially in reference to gossip or details, and financially attractive or lucrative.
- Full of juice or moisture; succulent.
- Informally, interesting, exciting, or entertaining, especially as a description of gossip, stories, or details.
- Informally, financially attractive or likely to yield substantial profit.
"The restaurant served a plate of juicy grilled peaches with fresh herbs."
"The coach offered some juicy details about the team's negotiations."
"Developers were attracted to the project because it sounded like a juicy opportunity."
A word can describe fruit that is full of liquid, a scandal that is full of sensational details, and a deal that is full of profit—three different kinds of 'juice.'
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does juicy come from?
The English adjective is formed from the noun juice with the suffix -y, a productive pattern in English for describing something characterized by a quality. The related noun juice is older and comes through Old French jus, ultimately from Latin. The modern figurative senses developed by extending the idea of something being richly rewarding or tempting beyond literal fruit and food. The word's emotional suggestion of interest and profit is a familiar feature of informal contemporary English.
Related word forms
How juicy is actually used
The literal sense is common in standard English. The senses involving gossip, entertainment, and profit are informal and often carry a slightly sensational or promotional tone.