'needy' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'nēadian,' where 'nēad' meant 'necessity' or 'need.'

'nēadian' transformed into the Middle English word 'nedi,' and eventually became the modern English word 'needy.'

Initially, it meant 'in need of something,' and over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'lacking necessities' and 'emotionally dependent.'