thirst trap

[thurst trap]

noun

Slang.

1. (on the internet) a social media post, especially a selfie or other photo, intended to elicit sexual attention, appreciation of one’s attractiveness, or other positive feedback (often used attributively): Her Instagram account is a thirst trap of foster kittens and rescue puppies.

   Did you see those thirst trap photos of her post-baby body?

   Her Instagram account is a thirst trap of foster kittens and rescue puppies.

Word History and Origins

Origin of thirst trap¹

First recorded in 2010–15; thirst ( def. ) (in the sense “strong desire”) + trap ¹ ( def. )

Example Sentences

“It looked so good, so I posted it. I didn’t know what a ‘thirst trap’ was, but now I do.

From Salon

Now I’m looking for the next thirst trap.

From Salon

Stewart has since amped up her “thirst trap” game.

From Salon

Experts said the ruling marks a legal line in the sand for agreements app users must accept before ordering takeout, posting a thirst trap, borrowing an ebook or viewing their lab results.

From Los Angeles Times

I tell Gunning the inclusion of Irn Bru in a thirst trap was a funny moment in a show that is incredibly dark in parts.

From BBC