indesiderate

Indesiderate is an adjective used to describe something that is not desired or is unwelcome by those affected. It can refer to actions, proposals, outcomes, or conditions that people or groups would prefer to avoid.

Etymology and usage context: The word combines the negating prefix in- with desiderate, a verb meaning to desire; desiderate derives from Latin desiderare “to long for, require.” Indesiderate appears in older or more formal English, but today it is uncommon in everyday speech.

Usage and nuances: In contemporary writing, indesiderate is typically reserved for formal, philosophical, or literary contexts. It is often replaced by undesired, unwanted, or unwelcome depending on the sense. The term emphasizes a lack of desirability relative to preferences or needs, rather than moral judgments.

Comparison and synonyms: Indesiderate aligns with terms like undesirable, unwelcome, or unpreferred, but it can carry a slightly more technical or archaic tone. Common antonyms include desired, welcome, and sought-after.

Examples: The regulatory changes were indesiderate to many small-business owners. The outcome proved indesiderate for the committee, undermining public confidence in the project.

See also: desiderate, desiderata, undesired, unwanted, unwelcome.