adj
Common
desired
dih-ZEYE-uhd
Desired (adj) means Wanted or wished for. Example: “Please tell us the desired size when you place your order.”
adj
1
Wanted or wished for.
"Please tell us the desired size when you place your order."
"He pushed the lever gently until the machine reached the desired speed."
"The treatment finally produced the desired result."
"Her surprise gift of chocolates didn't have the desired effects"
"This is a highly desired holiday home."
How to use desired
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomething that was hoped for or wanted.
Common pairings
the desired effect
desired outcome
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more desired
- Superlative
- most desired
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Please tell us the _____ size when you place your order.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for desired
See all rhymes for desired →Frequently asked questions
What does “desired” mean?
The word “desired” means wanted or wished for. In plain terms, something that was hoped for or wanted.
How do you pronounce “desired”?
“Desired” is pronounced dih-ZEYE-uhd (/dɪˈzaɪɹd/ in IPA).
How do you use “desired” in a sentence?
Here is “desired” used in a sentence: “The treatment finally produced the desired result.”
What part of speech is “desired”?
“Desired” is an adjective.
Is “desired” a common word?
“Desired” is a fairly common word in modern English.
What is the difference between "desired" and "desirable"?
"Desired" means specifically wanted or wished for, as in "the desired result," pointing to a particular aim. "Desirable" means worth wanting or attractive in general, as in "a desirable neighbourhood," describing quality rather than a specific goal.
What is the difference between "desired" and "wanted"?
Both mean wished for, but "desired" is slightly more formal and often appears in phrases about goals and outcomes, such as "desired effect." "Wanted" is the plainer, everyday word.
What are common phrases that use "desired"?
"Desired" pairs frequently with nouns about goals, giving collocations such as "desired outcome," "desired result," "desired effect," and "desired level." These phrases describe the specific end someone is aiming for.
Is "desired" formal or informal?
"Desired" is fairly formal and is common in instructions, reports, and technical writing, as in "adjust to the desired temperature." In casual speech people are more likely to say "wanted."
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