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desideratum

noun

Definition of desideratumnext
as in must
formal something that is needed or wanted a list of political desiderata

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of desideratum Coel signs on as McKellen’s assistant; shifts in desiderata and allegiance ensue. — Emma Allen, New Yorker, 13 Apr. 2026 Diversity isn’t necessarily an ethical desideratum in a collection. — New York Times, 28 Sep. 2021 Remaining at home is invariably the desideratum for most among the elderly, and this includes the wish to die at home. — Joseph Epstein, WSJ, 17 Jan. 2020 Some of the author costs are used to pay reviewers, causing one to question whether the process is always unbiased, as is the desideratum. — Neuroskeptic, Discover Magazine, 4 Apr. 2015
Recent Examples of Synonyms for desideratum
  1. must
  2. requirement
  3. wish
  4. condition
Noun
  • And while Rockliffe’s new temple of gastronomy is worthy alone of a trip here, staying the night is a must.
    — Nicole Trilivas, Travel + Leisure, 29 Sep. 2026
  • The clear panels fill it with natural light while offering UV protection — an absolute must as a skin cancer survivor.
    — Sarah DiMuro, PEOPLE, 26 Sep. 2026
Definition of must
Noun
  • Repeating that process places significant stress on components, increasing operational and capital costs due to the risk of failure, maintenance requirements and downtime.
    — Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 26 Sep. 2026
  • In some states, parents are winning time requirements on daily recess.
    — Cayla Bamberger, New York Daily News, 25 Sep. 2026
Definition of requirement
Noun
  • Gianvito Rossi has one wish for all the women who have worn his luxury footwear creations during the past two decades.
    — Katie Abel, Footwear News, 25 Sep. 2026
  • To consider it as the certain wish of every being who could hope to influence you!
    — Louis Menand, New Yorker, 21 Sep. 2026
Definition of wish
Noun
  • The next phase will test the aircraft across increasingly demanding conditions.
    — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 25 Sep. 2026
  • The ticket price fluctuates based on usage conditions so as not to cause dissatisfaction among customers waiting in line.
    — Masayuki Oi Japan News, Arkansas Online, 25 Sep. 2026
Definition of condition

Browse Nearby Words

desiderations
desideratum
design
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Cite this Entry

“Desideratum.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/desideratum. Accessed 2 Oct. 2026.

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