Hope

Meaning & Origin

The name Hope is an English feminine given name derived directly from the English word "hope," which itself comes from Old English hopian, meaning "to wish, expect with confidence."

As a virtue name, Hope became popular among Puritans in the 17th century alongside names like Faith and Charity, reflecting desirable moral qualities.

Popularity Over Time

Hope has maintained steady usage in English-speaking countries:

• Consistently ranked in the U.S. Top 500 since the 1880s
• Peaked in popularity in the early 2000s (Top 250)
• Remains a timeless, positive choice for parents today

Famous People Named Hope

• Hope Solo – American former soccer goalkeeper and World Cup champion
• Hope Lange – Academy Award–nominated actress
• Hope Hicks – Former White House Communications Director
• Hope Davis – Emmy-nominated actress known for indie films and TV

Cultural Significance

Beyond personal names, "Hope" appears widely in literature, music, and art as a symbol of optimism and resilience. It’s one of the three theological virtues in Christian tradition (alongside Faith and Charity).

The name evokes warmth, positivity, and forward-looking energy—making it a meaningful choice for a child or a powerful motif in storytelling.