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desperate

des·per·ate

desperate

 
 
pronunciation:
de sp riht [or] de spriht
features:
Word Combinations (adjective), Word Builder, Word Explorer
part of speech: adjective
definition 1: having no regard for danger as the result of hopelessness or great need.
She made a desperate attempt to enter the burning house and save the children.
synonyms:
frantic
similar words:
crazy, frenetic, frenzied, headlong, mad, madcap, rash, reckless, wild
definition 2: almost hopeless; extremely serious; critical.
The child's health was in a desperate state.The people trapped in the cave were in a desperate situation.
synonyms:
acute, critical, dire
similar words:
grave, pressing, urgent
definition 3: done as a last effort, without great hope of success.
The long pass reflected a desperate attempt to score on the last play of the game.
synonyms:
last-ditch
similar words:
all-out, do-or-die, futile
definition 4: possessed of an overwhelming need or desire.
Because of war and famine, the people are desperate for food.
synonyms:
insatiable, rapacious, ravenous, voracious
similar words:
frantic, mad, rabid, wild
Word CombinationsSubscriber feature About this feature
derivations: desperately (adv.), desperateness (n.)
Word Builder: desperate +
  • desperately:
    in a desperate way.
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