desperation

[des-puh-rey-shuhn] / ˌdɛs pəˈreɪ ʃən /

NOUN

hopelessness

Synonyms

STRONGEST

agony anguish anxiety desolation despair discomfort fear gloom grief heartache melancholy misery pain sorrow unhappiness

STRONG

concern dejection depression despondency disconsolateness distraction distress pang torture trouble worry

Antonyms

STRONGEST

cheer comfort contentment delight ease happiness health joy joyfulness peace pleasure relief

STRONG

advantage

WEAK

calm cautiousness collectedness confidence peacefulness security

NOUN

rashness

Synonyms

STRONGEST

defiance madness

STRONG

carelessness foolhardiness frenzy heedlessness impetuosity recklessness

Antonyms

WEAK

calm cautiousness collectedness confidence contentment peace peacefulness security

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.

Tuipulotu said on Friday his team were desperate and he wanted to see that desperation visited upon England.

From BBC

Instead of joyful encouragement, the clapping felt like desperation in the arena.

From Los Angeles Times

Tuipulotu shone a bright spotlight on what he calls Scotland's "desperation" ahead of the Calcutta Cup.

From BBC

Millions of onlookers are attached to their screens, united in their desperation for any new breadcrumb in the case.

From The Wall Street Journal

Camille’s face is hidden in the darkness, but the desperation in her voice nearly breaks me.

From Literature