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Definition of hopeful

hopeful

/ˈhoʊp.fəl/
hope · ful
Adverb:hopefully
•
Plural:hopefuls
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hopeful Lexical Profile

hopeful Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Feeling or inspiring optimism about a future event or outcome.

Example

"The doctors remain hopeful that the patient will make a full recovery within a few weeks."

2

Giving ground for hope; promising or auspicious.

Example

"Recent economic data shows several hopeful signs of growth in the manufacturing sector."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• noun

1

A person who aspires to succeed or is considered likely to succeed, especially as a candidate in an election, audition, or competition.

Example

"Hundreds of young hopefuls lined up outside the theater to audition for the lead role."

Synonyms
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• Rhymes for hopeful

• Nearby Words

hoover
hop
hope
hopeful
hopefully
hopefulness
hopeless

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English around the 13th century by combining the noun 'hope' (from Old English 'hopa', meaning confidence in the future) with the suffix '-ful'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Hopeful. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/hopeful
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