The noun desire, which means “a longing, a craving, or something that is wanted or hoped for,” didn't appear in the English lexicon until around 1300, but the verb form—that is, “to long or hope for” and “to express a wish for”—is about a century older. Most etymologists believe the verb was borrowed from the Old French cognate desirer, itself a derivation of the classical Latin verb desiderare. But the Latin verb was developed from the Latin phrase de sidere, which meant “from the stars” and seems to suggest that the ancient Romans expected the fulfillment of their hopes and wishes to come by way of the heavens. Before you laugh at the superstitions of ancient Rome, however, keep in mind that there are still people today who, halfheartedly at least, believe their dreams will come true if they simply wish upon a star.
©2018 Michael R. Gates
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