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Hope

Pronunciation: [ h-OHP ]

Girl Name #317 Most Popular Steady 1 Syllable

A timeless virtue name radiating optimism and light.

English American Christian Welsh
Optimistic Gentle Classic Virtuous Bright Uplifting

Meaning & Origin

"Wish fulfilled"

The Story of Hope

Hope comes from the Old English word hopa, meaning desire, wish, or expectation of something good. It is one of the three theological virtues in Christianity alongside Faith and Charity (Love). Used as a given name since the Puritan era, when virtue names became fashionable.

Hope has been used as a given name since at least the 17th century among Puritan settlers in America. It has enjoyed steady popularity without ever becoming overwhelmingly common, making it feel both classic and distinctive. It enjoyed a mild resurgence in the early 2000s.

In Christianity, Hope is one of the three theological virtues (1 Corinthians 13:13). In Greek mythology, hope (Elpis) was the last spirit remaining in Pandoras box. The name carries universal positive connotations across virtually all cultures.

Fun Facts

  • Hope is one of the original Puritan virtue names used by English settlers in America
  • The Hope Diamond, world-famous blue gem, shares this name though with no direct connection
  • Bob Hope, the legendary comedian, made this name associated with warmth and joy
  • Hope appears in the Bible as a cornerstone virtue alongside Faith and Love

Hope in Other Languages

Welsh Gobaith
French Espérance
German Hoffnung
Italian Speranza
Spanish Esperanza

Quick Facts

Gender
Girl
Syllables
1
Popularity Rank
#317
Total SSA Count
964
Cultural Origins
English American Christian Welsh
Pronunciation
Easy
Formality
Moderate
Cross-Cultural Ease
High

Common Nicknames

Hopie Hope

Pairs Well With

Hope Elizabeth Hope Marie Hope Grace Hope Elise Hope Renee

Sibling Names

Also a Boy Name

Hope is also used as a boy name, ranked #14203.

View Hope as a boy name →

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Frequently Asked Questions About Hope

What does the name Hope mean?
"Wish fulfilled". Hope comes from the Old English word hopa, meaning desire, wish, or expectation of something good. It is one of the three theological virtues in Christianity alongside Faith and Charity (Love). Used as a given name since the Puritan era, when virtue names became fashionable.
What is the origin of the name Hope?
Hope has English, American, Christian, and Welsh origins.
Is Hope a boy or girl name?
Hope is used as both a girl and boy name. As a girl name, it is ranked #317. As a boy name, it is ranked #14203. Hope is more commonly used as a girl name.
How do you pronounce Hope?
Hope is pronounced h-OHP.
How popular is the name Hope?
Hope is currently ranked #317 in popularity for girl names in the United States.
What are common nicknames for Hope?
Common nicknames for Hope include Hopie and Hope.
What are good middle names for Hope?
Popular middle name pairings include Hope Elizabeth, Hope Marie, Hope Grace, Hope Elise, and Hope Renee.
What are good sibling names for Hope?
Names that pair well with Hope as siblings include Faith, Joy, Grace, Charity, and Caleb.
How many syllables does Hope have?
Hope has 1 syllable, making it easy to say and remember.
Is Hope a common or rare name?
Hope is a popular name, ranked #317 for girls. It is well-known without being overused.

About the Name Hope

Hope is a girl name with English, American, Christian, and Welsh origins . The name means "Wish fulfilled" .

Is Hope a boy or girl name? Hope is used as both a girl and boy name. As a girl name, it ranks #317 in popularity. As a boy name, it ranks #14,203. Hope is more commonly used as a girl name.

Hope is currently ranked #317 in popularity for girl names in the United States.

The name Hope has 1 syllable and is pronounced h-OHP, making it easy to pronounce and remember.

Common nicknames for Hope include Hopie and Hope. These shorter forms provide casual alternatives while keeping the elegance of the full name.

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