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Definitions

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.

“It’s judging our desperation rate,” said Nicole Moore, president of Rideshare Drivers United.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 1, 2026

He was sacked by Spurs 14 years ago and calling for him would surely smack of desperation.

From BBC • Mar. 24, 2026

Except Paul isn’t magic; she waves her red flags high and proud, and the good folks at ABC, Hulu and Disney charged at them with the oblivious desperation of so many trapped, maddened bulls.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 21, 2026

On Saturday desperation turned to protest in the central province of Ciego de Ávila.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 19, 2026

Near desperation after his hard ride, he glanced at the horizon.

From "Chasing Lincoln's Killer" by James L. Swanson

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.