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

'desperationem' transformed into the Old French word 'desperacion,' and eventually became the modern English word 'desperation' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'loss of hope,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.