Desiderata

/ˌdɛsɪdəˈrɑːtə/ noun

Definition

Things that are needed or wanted; a collection of things considered desirable or necessary.

Etymology

Latin plural of desideratum (something desired), from desiderare (to desire, to miss). The Latin plural is often kept in English, especially in formal or academic contexts.

Kelly Says

Famous essays like William Strunk Jr.'s 'Desiderata' use the plural Latin form because it sounds learned and comprehensive—the word itself means 'all the things we've decided matter,' which is why it appears in philosophy and ethics writings.

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