Desiree

Desiree is the unaccented form of French Désirée, meaning “desired” or “wished for.” It belongs to a name tradition that expresses the idea of a wanted child. The familiar English spelling leaves out the French accents while preserving the connection with the original word and name.

Kate Chopin's short story Désirée's Baby provides a notable literary association. That story is separate from the positive literal meaning, so a family may value one connection without intending the other. The final sound is usually closer to ray in English, rather than a silent ending. Désirée is worth comparing when preserving French spelling is important to the family.