desired
Americanadjective
-
yearned or wished for; coveted.
-
deemed correct or proper; selected; required.
The chef added stock until the sauce reached the desired consistency.
Other Word Forms
- undesired adjective
- well-desired adjective
Etymology
Origin of desired
A Middle English word dating back to 1250–1300; desire, -ed 2
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The technique involves attaching an original sketch to an adhesive backing, cutting it out, strategically sprinkling sand on the desired areas, then removing any misplaced grains one by one.
From Los Angeles Times
Rodriguez’s government just passed a new hydrocarbon law that oil executives have said is better than the prior law but leaves a lot to be desired, particularly in areas such as resolving legal disputes.
From Barron's
He knew Xerox desired to invest in Apple, which would soon go public in one of the most eagerly anticipated stock offerings of the era.
From Los Angeles Times
"In my view, the build-up to and coverage of the game itself left a lot to be desired on those particular scores."
From BBC
Whatever subtle manipulations the producers employed to move him into the next desired position, they have backed the right horse.
From Los Angeles Times
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
