'desperately' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'desperatus,' where 'de-' meant 'down from' and 'sperare' meant 'to hope.'

'desperatus' transformed into the Old French word 'desperé,' and eventually became the modern English word 'desperate' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'without hope,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'in a way that shows despair or a great need for something.'