# Desmond

/ˈdɛzmənd/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/desmond
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. university grade

noun · CEFR C2 · British English · Slang · Informal

a British slang term for a '2:2' university degree grade.

For teachers: a lower second-class honours degree (2:2). The term is rhyming slang based on the name of the South African cleric Desmond Tutu.

- He was a bit disappointed to get a desmond, but he still found a good job.
- While he had hoped for a first, he eventually reconciled himself to the fact that a desmond from such a prestigious university was still a respectable achievement.

Usage: Usually used with the indefinite article 'a'.

Teaching tip: This is specific to the UK higher education system; learners should be aware it is humorous and informal, referencing the name Desmond Tutu.

### 2. a person's name

noun · CEFR A1

a common first name for a man or a family name.

For teachers: a male given name or a surname of Irish origin, originally meaning 'man from South Munster'.

- Desmond is going to lead the meeting this afternoon.
- The biography of Desmond Tutu provides a profound look into the struggle against apartheid in South Africa.

Usage: Capitalized as a proper noun.

## Examples

- He was a desmond who never smiled.
- The old professor was a desmond, preferring silence and books to lively conversation.
- In the novel, the protagonist’s desmond demeanor masked a turbulent inner life that only surfaced during moments of extreme crisis.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.