desperation
UK[ˌdɛspəˈreɪʃ(ə)n]US[ˌdɛspəˈreɪʃ(ə)n]
n
a state of despair, typically one that results in rash or extreme behaviour.
n
the loss of hope; hopelessness.
Morpheme Breakdown
de
sper
ation
de
completely
sper
hope
ation
noun suffix
Etymology
The word 'desperation' originates from the Latin verb 'desperare', meaning 'to be without hope' or 'to give up hope'. This verb itself is a compound of the prefix 'de-', signifying a reversal or removal, and the root 'sperare', meaning 'to hope', which is derived from 'spes' (hope). The noun form 'desperationem' (state of despair) entered Middle English via Old French, solidifying the abstract concept of a complete absence of hope. Thus, the literal morphemic logic of 'completely without hope' evolved directly into the modern meaning of a despairing state that often drives reckless action.
Analysis
Structure: de (completely) + sper (hope) + ation (noun suffix)
de- (Latin prefix, meaning 'completely', 'down from', or 'lack of'); sper (from Latin 'spes', meaning 'hope'); -ation (Latin-derived noun-forming suffix, indicating an action, process, or state).
Examples
in a moment of desperation, he called the only number he could remember.
the growing desperation among the refugees was palpable.
she acted out of sheer desperation to save her family.