What does desiderata mean?
Desiderata refers to a list or catalog of things desired or wished for, often considered essential or highly desirable. The term is commonly used in formal or technical contexts, such as business, academia, or law, to describe a collection of items or qualities considered necessary or ideal for a particular purpose or project. Desiderata can be used to outline the requirements or qualifications for a job, project, or program, and is often used to convey a sense of aspiration or ambition. The term has a somewhat formal connotation and is not commonly used in everyday conversation. Understanding the concept of desiderata can help individuals and organizations clarify their goals and priorities.
nounA list or catalog of things desired or wished for. The term often refers to a collection of items considered essential or highly desirable.
- A list of desired things
- A catalog of essential items
"The company's desiderata for the new project included a team of experienced developers and a robust infrastructure."
"The desiderata for the new employee included a degree in computer science and experience with machine learning."
"The company's desiderata for the new project were extensive and included a team of experts in various fields."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of desiderata
The term desiderata originates from the Latin word desideratum, which means 'a thing desired'. The Latin term is derived from the verb desiderare, which means 'to desire' or 'to long for'. The term desiderata has been used in English since the 17th century to describe a list or catalog of desired things.
Usage notes
The term desiderata is often used in formal or technical contexts, such as business, academia, or law. It has a somewhat formal connotation and is not commonly used in everyday conversation.