In Greek mythology, elpis is the Greek word commonly translated as “hope” in Pandora’s story.
The word appears as the final named occupant of Pandora’s vessel after the evils escape. Its meaning can include expectation or anticipation, so “hope” is a conventional translation rather than a complete explanation of every possible nuance.
That linguistic detail matters because the myth’s ending is ambiguous. If elpis is understood as positive hope, its remaining inside may protect humanity; if it means expectation more broadly, the ending can be read in a less comforting way.
The word should not be confused with Eris, the goddess of strife, or Moira, a term connected with fate. Those are separate Greek mythological terms and do not name the vessel’s final occupant.