Definition of desperate

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  • desperate is a valid Scrabble US word with a point value of 12
  • desperate is a valid Scrabble UK word with a point value of 12
  • desperate is a valid Words with friends word with a point value of 13

Definition of desperate

  • fraught with extreme danger; nearly hopeless (adjective)

    Examples

    1. a desperate illness
    2. on all fronts the Allies were in a desperate situation due to lack of materiel

    Synonyms

    1. dire
  • arising from or marked by despair or loss of hope (adjective)

    Examples

    1. a desperate cry for help
    2. helpless and desperate--as if at the end of his tether
    3. her desperate screams

    Synonyms

    1. despairing
  • desperately determined (adjective)

    Synonyms

    1. do-or-die
  • showing extreme courage; especially of actions courageously undertaken in desperation as a last resort (adjective)

    Examples

    1. made a last desperate attempt to reach the climber
    2. the desperate gallantry of our naval task forces marked the turning point in the Pacific war

    Synonyms

    1. heroic
  • a person who is frightened and in need of help (noun)

    Examples

    1. they prey on the hopes of the desperate
  • (of persons) dangerously reckless or violent as from urgency or despair (adjective)

    Examples

    1. a desperate criminal
    2. taken hostage of desperate men
  • showing extreme urgency or intensity especially because of great need or desire (adjective)

    Examples

    1. felt a desperate urge to confess
    2. a desperate need for recognition

See definition of desperate in Merriam Webster