‘湿透’ (shī tòu) is an adjective meaning ‘soaked through’ — describing something that is completely saturated with water or another liquid, with no dry part remaining. The first character 湿 (shī) means ‘wet’ or ‘damp’, while the second character 透 (tòu) means ‘through’, ‘penetrated’, or ‘thoroughly’. Together, they emphasize full, deep saturation — not just surface wetness but moisture that has permeated entirely.

This term is commonly used to describe clothing, hair, bedding, or skin after heavy rain, swimming, or sweating. It often carries a slightly negative connotation — suggesting discomfort, chill, or inconvenience — and appears frequently in weather reports, health advice (e.g., avoiding catching a cold when wet), and descriptive storytelling. Unlike simpler terms like 湿 (wet) or 潮 (damp), 湿透 implies intensity and completeness, making it stronger and more vivid.