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What is the English translation of 'nil desperandum'?

Question #46441. Asked by HarrietJPotter.

Sondheim
Answer has 6 votes
Currently Best Answer
Sondheim
21 year member
32 replies

Answer has 6 votes.

Currently voted the best answer.
The complete phrase is Nil Desperandum Auspice Deo.
Roughly translated it means Don't Despair, Trust in God.
It's the motto of the city of Sunderland.

Apr 15 2004, 12:52 AM
mibmob
Answer has 3 votes
mibmob
22 year member
1273 replies

Answer has 3 votes.
It is a contraction of nihil desperandum auspice Deo which means nothing needs to be considerd desperate with the help of God - well you did ask for the *meaning*!

Apr 15 2004, 6:37 AM
griffinj
Answer has 2 votes
griffinj
21 year member
563 replies

Answer has 2 votes.
"Fairbairn's Crests of the Families of Great Britain and Ireland" translates it as 'never despairing'. It's the motto of the family of Simpson, as well as several others. It seems more appropriate for Bart than Homer.

Apr 15 2004, 6:46 AM
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