Meaning & Definition of word "Desperation"

Desperation

/ˌdɛspəˈreɪʃən/

1. A state of despair, typically one that results in rash or extreme behavior.
- Example: In a moment of desperation, he made a choice that would affect his life forever.
2. The condition of being driven to take drastic or extreme measures due to hopelessness.
- Example: Her desperation led her to seek help from anyone who would listen.
3. A feeling of intense hopelessness or distress.
- Example: The desperation in his voice was evident as he pleaded for assistance.

Latin 'desperatio', from 'desperare' meaning 'to lose hope'.

desperation call:

A plea for help made when in urgent need.

desperate times call for desperate measures:

In challenging situations, one may resort to extreme actions.

desperate for attention:

Having a strong need for recognition or validation.

desperate:

Feeling, showing, or having a hopeless sense that a situation is so bad that it is impossible to deal with.

despair:

The complete loss or absence of hope.

distress:

Extreme anxiety, sorrow, or pain.

Meaning: Going off the rails

Example Sentence: After losing everything, he was going off the rails in his desperation.

Meaning: Throwing a Hail Mary

Example Sentence: She decided to throw a Hail Mary and ask for help in her time of desperation.