Definitions of desperate:

  • noun:   a person who is frightened and in need of help
    Example: "They prey on the hopes of the desperate"
  • adjective:   desperately determined
  • adjective:   (of persons) dangerously reckless or violent as from urgency or despair
    Example: "A desperate criminal"
  • adjective:   showing extreme courage; especially of actions courageously undertaken in desperation as a last resort
    Example: "Made a last desperate attempt to reach the climber"
  • adjective:   fraught with extreme danger; nearly hopeless
    Example: "A desperate illness"
  • adjective:   showing extreme urgency or intensity especially because of great need or desire
    Example: "Felt a desperate urge to confess"
  • adjective:   arising from or marked by despair or loss of hope
    Example: "A desperate cry for help"