VocabDictionary

desirable

/dɪˈzaɪərəbəl/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

Wished for or intended as being attractive, useful, or advantageous.

Example Sentences:
  • The property is in a highly desirable location near the city center.
  • It is desirable to have a backup plan in case the primary strategy fails.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “desirable”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Middle English 'desirable', from Old French 'desirable', based on the Latin 'desiderabilis', from 'desiderare' (to long for, desire). The root 'sidera' relates to stars, suggesting the original sense of 'awaiting what the stars will bring'.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'desire' + 'able': If something is 'able' to be 'desired', it is desirable.

Frequently Asked Questions About “desirable

1. What is the meaning of “desirable” in English?

In English, desirable (adjective) is defined as: “Wished for or intended as being attractive, useful, or advantageous.”.

2. How do you use “desirable” in a sentence?

The property is in a highly desirable location near the city center.

3. What are English synonyms of “desirable”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “desirable”?

Derived from the Middle English 'desirable', from Old French 'desirable', based on the Latin 'desiderabilis', from 'desiderare' (to long for, desire). The root 'sidera' relates to stars, suggesting the original sense of 'awaiting what the stars will bring'.