Desperate

Definition

Desperate is an adjective that describes a state of extreme need, urgency, or despair, often leading to risky or extreme actions. It can refer to a lack of hope, intense eagerness, or situations of high risk.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈdɛspərɪt/
• Respelling: DES-puh-rit

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈdɛspərɪt/
• Respelling: DES-puh-rit

Etymology

The word "desperate" originates from the Latin "desperatus," meaning "deprived of hope" or "despairing," which is the past participle of "desperare" (to lose hope). The term entered Middle English with meanings related to hopelessness and extreme measures.

Derivatives

• Desperately (adverb)
• Desperation (noun)
• Desperateness (noun)
• Despair (noun/verb)
• Desperado (noun)

Synonyms

• Hopeless
• Frantic
• Anxious

Antonyms

• Hopeful
• Calm
• Content

Usage

The adjective "desperate" is commonly used to describe situations or actions driven by urgency, such as "He made a desperate attempt to finish on time." It is also used to convey feelings of despair or hopelessness, as in "She felt desperate after losing her job."

Related Terms

• Despair: The complete loss of hope.
• Urgency: The quality of requiring immediate attention or action.
• Frustration: A feeling of dissatisfaction or defeat.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Feeling or showing a loss of hope: Describes a state of extreme despair or anxiety, often without optimism.
  • Example: "In a desperate situation, she struggled to find a solution."
• Involving or undertaken as a last resort: Refers to actions taken under extreme circumstances, often with risk.
  • Example: "They made a desperate effort to reach safety."
• Having an intense desire or need: Indicates a very strong feeling of wanting or needing something.
  • Example: "He was desperate to make a good impression at the interview."