Hippopotamus dream meaning is explained below using 11 different sources. Each interpretation is shown with its source.

Interpretation 1 — Theresa Cheung

A dream about a hippopotamus suggests the dreamer is suffering from feelings of inferiority. He or she is not satisfied about him or herself, both physically and mentally. These feelings do not always have a basis in reality but represent how the dreamer views him or herself. The hippopotamus is considered to be clumsy, ungainly and overweight, and the dreamer may also feel this way about themselves. Whether true or not in waking life, this inner feeling of being a loser will hold the dreamer back and prevent him or her succeeding in life. The dream implies that the image the dreamer has of themselves is a figment of their imagination.

If they could only shake it off and see themselves in a less critical light, they would feel much better about themselves and be able to attract success into their life. Dreams about hippos can also represent concerns about fertility and childbirth as the female hippopotamus represents the Egyptian Great Mother, Amenti, the goddess of childbirth.

Source: The Element Encyclopedia • Author: Theresa Cheung

Interpretation 2 — Nancy Wagaman

Large or bulky.

Obvious.

Hiding aspects of yourself (thoughts, opinions, motives, physical self) or not communicating or revealing everything about yourself (as hippos are sometimes seen submerged in water.) Dreaming of this animal can represent too much or not enough of one of those qualities, or someone or something you associate with the quality or animal.

Consider also the animal’s actions, context, and your feelings about it.

See Animal, Rhinoceros

Source: The Curious Dreamer’s Dream Dictionary • Author: Nancy Wagaman

Interpretation 3 — Klaus Vollmar

Physical urges and emotional energies that have not yet been developed and are in need of differentiation. It could also mean encountering the massive and devouring energies of the unconscious, particularly physical urges and emotions.

The devouring mother or woman; the devouring unconscious, animalistic but also comic.

According to Jung, the monster, the evil, that wants to swallow you up.

Source: Little Giant Encyclopedia • Author: Klaus Vollmar

Interpretation 4 — Ariadne Green

A mammal living in water and on land signifies the mediation between the elements of water, your emotions, the earth and your body. It may comment on a big emotional issue that has affected your health. With its huge body, a hippopotamus often comes to represent the undertaking of a big project in which you may have some mud to wade through before you can complete it.
Source: Ariadne's Book of Dream • Author: Ariadne Green

Interpretation 5 — Martha Clarke

In the Egyptian hieroglyphic system, this animal represents strength and vigor.

It is also associated with the idea of fertility.

If you see it submerged in dirty water or mud, the dream points to your lower passions and depraved impulses. These impulses do not give you any pleasure if you are ruled by them.

Announces strength, animal vigor, and fertility.

Source: The Big Dictionary of Dreams • Author: Martha Clarke

Interpretation 6 — Stearn Robinson - Tom Corbett

This clumsy animal in its native habitat signifies a dangerous rival or hostile competitor; in captivity (or in a zoo) it forecasts a period of frus- tration or boredom which will require real initiative and energy to overcome.
Source: The Complete Guide to Interpreting Your Dreams • Author: Stearn Robinson - Tom Corbett

Interpretation 7 — Garuda

Depth Psychology: Seeing a hippopotamus: while you present to the world a picture of authority (in behavior and appearance), deep down you feel that you are standing on “wobbly” legs.

See Animals, Whale.

Source: Dreamers Dictionary • Author: Garuda

Interpretation 8 — Dream Explanations - Anonymous

Dreams of a hippopotamus are showing you that you have a wonderful balance between your masculine energy that can be dominating and intimidating and your feminine energy that can flow with the stream of life.
Source: Strangest Dream Explanations • Author: Dream Explanations - Anonymous

Interpretation 9 — DreamForth

A hippopotamus is a quiet creature with hidden strengths. Similarly, human beings have untapped potential, talents, and powers.

To dream of a hippopotamus pertains to revealing your strength and power.

Source: Dream Symbols and Analysis • Author: DreamForth

Interpretation 10 — Vincent Wienand

1. Big mouth,

2. Bossy spirit,

3. Large dangerous and mean influence

Source: Dream Dictionary The Biblical Model • Author: Vincent Wienand

Interpretation 11 — Betty Bethards

Emotional and physical weight; power through heaviness; lighten up.
Source: The Dream Books Symbols • Author: Betty Bethards