What does Hope mean and where does it come from?
Hope is an English name derived from the Old English word 'hopian,' meaning 'to hope'. The name gained popularity in the 19th century and is often associated with positive connotations of optimism and faith. Its usage is prevalent particularly in English-speaking countries, and it is often given as
Cultural significance
Hope has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in England-speaking communities, where it reflects values of expectation or desire for a certain thing to happen.
Peak popularity
Reached #143 in 1999 — currently #303 in the US.
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Related Reading
England-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Hope?
Hope works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Hope Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Hope Rose
Floral · soft ending
Hope Claire
French influence · crisp
Hope Jane
Literary · strong
Hope Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Hope right now?
Declining — down 44 spots — currently #303 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #303 | 1,021 | ▼ down 44 · -16% births |
| 2022 | #259 | 1,209 | ▼ down 33 · -9% births |
| 2021 | #226 | 1,324 | ▼ down 22 · -6% births |
| 2020 | #204 | 1,407 | ▲ up 23 · -3% births |
| 2015 | #227 | 1,445 | ▲ up 14 · +10% births |
| 2010 | #241 | 1,310 | ▼ down 57 · -31% births |
| 2005 | #184 | 1,888 | ▼ down 38 · -19% births |
| 2000 | #146 | 2,321 | ▲ up 47 · +52% births |
| 1995 | #193 | 1,527 | ▲ up 73 · +45% births |
| 1990 | #266 | 1,055 | ▲ up 9 · +16% births |
| 1985 | #275 | 909 | ▲ up 34 · +16% births |
| 1980 | #309 | 781 | ▼ down 107 · -35% births |
| 1975 | #202 | 1,208 | ▲ up 93 · +22% births |
| 1970 | #295 | 987 | ▼ down 43 · -14% births |
| 1965 | #252 | 1,153 | — |
The story of Hope
Hope has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. A total of 92,184 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #603 in 1880 to #303 in 2023. Hope is used for both genders: 99% female and 1% male.
Names that peaked alongside Hope in 1999:
Hope by decade
Hope peaked in the 1990s. See all 1990s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 134 | |
| 1890s | 293 | |
| 1900s | 439 | |
| 1910s | 1,998 | |
| 1920s | 3,486 | |
| 1930s | 2,140 | |
| 1940s | 3,059 | |
| 1950s | 5,013 | |
| 1960s | 8,767 | |
| 1970s | 11,075 | |
| 1980s | 7,642 | |
| 1990s | 14,323 | |
| 2000s ★ | 18,717 | |
| 2010s | 13,682 | |
| 2020s | 1,416 | |
What are good nicknames for Hope?
What names sound and feel like Hope?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Hope also consider these
Common questions about the name Hope
What does the name Hope mean?
Hope means "Expectation or desire for a certain thing to happen" — a name rooted in England tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Hope?
Hope is currently ranked #303 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Hope?
Hope originates from England tradition. England names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Hope?
Hope is a one-syllable name pronounced HH OW1 P. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Hope sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Hope flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Hope ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.