desideratum
/dɪˌzɪdəˈrɑːtəm
/ /dɪˌzɪdəˈreɪtəm/ /dɪˌsɪdəˈrɑːtəm/noun (plural desiderata /dɪˌzɪdəˈrɑːtə/ /dɪˌsɪdəˈrɑːtə/)
Something that is needed or wanted: integrity was a desideratum...
- As no longer an order imposed by nature, it is clear that subjective freedom is an essential desideratum: the relation of marriage must of all things be between self-consciously free individuals.
- It enshrines the essential desideratum of popular criticism - it only criticizes other people.
- While these are the essential requirements, certain additional desiderata should perhaps be recorded.
Synonyms
requirement, prerequisite, need, indispensable thing, desired thing, needed thing, essential, requisite, necessary;
lack, want, missing thing;
dream, ideal, hope, wish;
Latin sine qua non
Origin
Mid 17th century: from Latin, 'something desired', neuter past participle of desiderare (see desiderate).