— desperately , adv. — desperateness , n.
/des"peuhr it, -prit/ , adj.
1. reckless or dangerous because of despair or urgency: a desperate killer.
2. having an urgent need, desire, etc.: desperate for attention.
3. leaving little or no hope; very serious or dangerous: a desperate illness.
4. extremely bad; intolerable or shocking: clothes in desperate taste.
5. extreme or excessive.
6. making a final, ultimate effort; giving all: a desperate attempt to save a life.
7. actuated by a feeling of hopelessness.
8. having no hope; giving in to despair.
n.
9. Obs. a desperado.
[ 1350-1400; ME desperatus, ptp. of desperare to DESPAIR; see -ATE 1 ]
Syn. 1. rash, frantic. 3. grave. See hopeless. 8. forlorn, desolate.
Ant. 1. careful. 3, 8 . hopeful.