hope against hope

phrase

: to hope without any basis for expecting fulfillment

Word History

First Known Use

1807, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hope against hope was in 1807

Rhymes for hope against hope

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Browse Nearby Words

Hopea
hope against hope
hope chest
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Cite this Entry

“Hope against hope.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hope%20against%20hope. Accessed 26 Aug. 2026.

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Last Updated: - Definition revised
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