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Definitions

desperate

[des-per-it, -prit] / ˈdɛs pər ɪt, -prɪt /




Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

It is illegal to pay ransoms in Nigeria, but analysts say payments by desperate families, intermediaries or, in some cases, state authorities have fuelled the abductions.

From BBC • Jun. 7, 2026

There, among the seamstresses in training, Duncan met other welfare mothers, equally desperate, and recognized the stinginess, indifference and bureaucratic aggravations she’d been suffering in isolation were part of a larger system.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 5, 2026

“Blame the Clown” is a rough ride through both desperate and jubilant times.

From Salon • Jun. 5, 2026

As sky-high entry costs price many people out, malicious actors are capitalizing on desperate fans seeking bargains outside accredited channels, using techniques experts say represent a "new normal" for major events.

From Barron's • Jun. 3, 2026

I had to trust Regan in the same desperate way that a skydiver trusts his parachute, and that feeling was uncomfortable for someone like me.

From "Glitch" by Laura Martin




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