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Desiderata Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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desiderata

[dɛzɪdəˈrɑːtə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

philosophical text

Desiderata is a Latin term meaning 'things desired' or 'things wished for.' It often refers to a list of goals or aspirations that one seeks to achieve in life. The term gained popularity through the poem 'Desiderata' written by Max Ehrmann in the early 1920s, which emphasizes the importance of living a peaceful and fulfilling life.

Synonyms

aspirations, desires, goals, wishes.

Examples of usage

  • Her desiderata in life include happiness and success.
  • He wrote down his desiderata for the future.
  • The ancient philosopher spoke of his desiderata as guiding principles.
  • In the meeting, they discussed the company's desiderata for the coming year.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Literature

  • A famous poem titled 'Desiderata' was written by Max Ehrmann in 1927, offering advice on how to live a fulfilling life.
  • The poem emphasizes themes such as peace, kindness, and the importance of self-acceptance.
  • It has been widely quoted and printed in various media, making it an enduring piece of modern inspirational literature.

Psychology

  • Desires and wishes can significantly influence mental well-being, guiding personal goals and aspirations.
  • Research in positive psychology often highlights the importance of having a clear understanding of one's desires for life satisfaction.
  • Acknowledging desires can help in setting realistic objectives, leading to a more fulfilling life experience.

Philosophy

  • The concept encourages reflection on what truly matters, fostering a deeper understanding of personal values.
  • Philosophers often debate the nature of desires, questioning which should be pursued for a meaningful existence.
  • Desiderata can also be linked to Stoicism, where understanding desires can align personal actions with universal good.

Cultural Impact

  • The idea of a 'desiderata' has permeated various cultures, reflecting common human experiences of hope and longing.
  • In modern self-help culture, creating a personal 'desiderata list' has become a popular practice for goal-setting.
  • Various art forms, including paintings and songs, have illustrated the importance of desires and aspirations in human life.

Origin of 'desiderata'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Latin word 'desideratum', meaning 'something desired'.
  • In Latin, 'desiderare' translates to 'to long for' or 'to wish for', reflecting a sense of yearning.
  • The word entered English in the early 20th century, often related to philosophical texts.

The term 'desiderata' originates from the Latin word 'desideratum,' which translates to 'that which is desired' or 'a thing that is longed for.' Its roots can be traced back to the Latin verb 'desidere,' which means 'to long for' or 'to wish.' The concept of desiderata resonates through various philosophical and ethical discussions throughout history, emphasizing the human quest for meaning, purpose, and fulfillment. Max Ehrmann's poem 'Desiderata,' written in 1927, popularized the term in modern English, encouraging readers to seek serenity and wisdom amid the chaos of life. The poem's widespread influence has created a lasting association of the term with personal aspirations and ethical ideals, reflecting the inherent desires that shape human experiences.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,246, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.