thirst

a physiological need to drink

strong desire for something (not food or drink)

A sensation of dryness in the throat associated with a craving for liquids, produced by deprivation of drink, or by some other cause (as fear, excitement, etc.) which arrests the secretion of the pharyngeal mucous membrane; hence, the condition producing this sensation.

feel the need to drink

have a craving, appetite, or great desire for

To feel thirst; to experience a painful or uneasy sensation of the throat or fauces, as for want of drink.

To have a thirst for.