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Desideratum Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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desideratum

[ˌdɛzɪˈdɛrətəm ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

desired thing

A desideratum is something that is highly wanted or desired. It often refers to an ideal or necessary condition that one aims to achieve, especially in discussions of goals or aspirations.

Synonyms

goal, necessity, requirement, want.

Examples of usage

  • Peace is a desideratum for many nations.
  • In education, equity is a key desideratum.
  • His desideratum was to achieve financial stability.
  • The researchers listed safety as the main desideratum of the experiment.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Philosophy

  • In philosophy, a desideratum often refers to an ideal or goal that is sought after in a particular discourse.
  • Philosophers debate what constitutes a valid desideratum, shaping ideas and theories around human needs.
  • The consideration of a desideratum can influence ethical decision-making and value assessments in societal matters.

Business

  • In business planning, identifying a desideratum can guide strategies, ensuring that the most important goals are targeted.
  • Companies often list desiderata in their project proposals to communicate what they aim to achieve.
  • Stakeholder feedback can help prioritize different desiderata, reflecting the needs of the wider community.

Pop Culture

  • The term appears in various pop culture references where characters express their deepest desires or necessities.
  • In literature, achieving a character's desideratum often serves as a key plot point, driving their motivations and actions.
  • Songs and films frequently explore themes of longing, with characters referring to their own desires as desiderata.

Psychology

  • In psychology, understanding what individuals consider their desiderata can reveal much about their motivations and mental health.
  • Research shows connection between unfulfilled desiderata and feelings of frustration or anxiety.
  • Therapeutic approaches often encourage individuals to articulate their desiderata to facilitate personal growth and clarity.

Origin of 'desideratum'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Latin, where 'desideratum' means 'that which is desired'.
  • In Latin, the root 'desiderare' means 'to long for' or 'to wish for'.
  • The word has been used in English since the late 17th century, mainly in philosophical and academic contexts.

The term 'desideratum' comes from the Latin word 'desideratum', which means 'something desired or wished for'. The root 'desiderare' translates to 'to long for, to desire', and includes the prefix 'de-' indicating 'from' or 'down from' along with 'siderare' which implies 'to consider' or 'to watch'. The use of the word in English dates back to the mid-19th century, where it started appearing in philosophical and academic texts to describe essential components needed for achieving specific goals. Over time, its usage has broadened beyond academic contexts and is now often used in everyday language to signify any strongly desired object or outcome.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,678, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.