Swahili · Emotions & Feelings
matumaini
Hope
Beginnernoun
Definition
The feeling that something good will happen.
Example
Usipoteze matumaini.
Don't lose hope.
Etymology
'Matumaini' derives from the verb 'kutumaini', which means 'to hope'. This term's evolution reflects the importance of hope within Swahili-speaking cultures, highlighting its role in social and personal aspirations.
How & Where It’s Used
'Matumaini' is used in both formal and informal contexts, often in discussions of aspirations or dreams. It appears in literature, poetry, and motivational speech, making it a common term in communities throughout East Africa.