Historical clue formulations

• Desperate for affection, in modern slang — 2024-11-23
• Desperately in need of approval, in modern slang — 2018-04-20
• Like under-watered plants — 2012-08-29
• Seeking relief from a pitcher? — 2010-08-06
• Unable to pass the bar? — 2007-11-11
• Unliquidated? — 1999-09-05
• Absorbent — 1998-01-22
• Dry — 1995-12-02