High and dry Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Lack of Support Implies that someone is unsupported when they expected help, especially in tough times. When I lost my job, my friends left me high and dry. Pro Tip 2/3Unexpected Abandonment Suggests being abandoned or left aside suddenly, creating a strong sense of betrayal. The investors pulled out and left the project high and dry. Pro Tip 3/3Emotional Impact Often used to express emotional distress caused by being abandoned or not supported. His mentor's sudden departure left him feeling high and dry.