esperança

Esperança is a Portuguese noun meaning hope. It denotes a feeling of desire for a possible positive outcome and is often accompanied by a sense of expectation or confidence that what is hoped for may occur. The word derives from esper- “to hope,” from Latin sperare, with the abstract noun suffix -ança, and is related to the verb esperar (to hope, to wait).

In philosophy and psychology, hope is studied as a motivational state that supports goal-directed behavior in the face of uncertainty. It differs from optimism in its emphasis on cognitive appraisal of pathways and agency—the belief that one can initiate steps toward a goal—and from mere wishful thinking.

In Christian theology, hope is one of the theological virtues, alongside faith and charity. It expresses confidence in God’s promises and in the ultimate fulfillment of justice, life, or salvation. It guides ethical choices and endurance in hardship.

Esperança is also used as a toponym and given name in Portuguese-speaking communities. Several municipalities and places bear the name Esperança, and Esperança is encountered as a feminine given name.

See also: Esperanza (Spanish); Spes (Latin).