Carissa Girl
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: kuh-RIS-uh //kəˈrɪsə//
Origin: Greek; Latin
Meaning: Greek: 'beloved'; Latin: 'grace'
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Carissa has its roots in the Greek word "kharis," meaning "grace" or "kindness." This term is often associated with the concept of beauty and charm, which has contributed to the name's appeal. The name Carissa is believed to have emerged in the 20th century as a modern adaptation, influenced by the popularity of names that evoke positive qualities.
It is also linked to the botanical term "carissa," referring to a genus of flowering plants in the family Apocynaceae, which further emphasizes themes of beauty and nature. Historically, the name Carissa does not have significant references in ancient texts or notable historical figures, unlike many traditional names.
However, its Greek roots connect it to a broader cultural and linguistic heritage that includes various names derived from "kharis," such as Charis, which has been used in literature and religious contexts. The use of names with similar roots can be traced back to classical antiquity, where the concept of grace was highly valued in both philosophical and artistic expressions.
Culturally, the name Carissa embodies a sense of elegance and charm, resonating with themes of kindness and beauty that have been celebrated throughout history. While it may not have the same extensive historical lineage as some other names, its etymological connections to grace and beauty contribute to its enduring appeal.
The name may also be associated with various diminutives, such as Cara, which further emphasizes its affectionate and graceful connotations. Overall, Carissa reflects a blend of linguistic heritage and cultural significance that highlights the timeless appreciation for grace and beauty.
Famous people named Carissa
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U.S. Historical Usage
The name Carissa was first seen in the United States in 1949. Carissa has ranked as high as #463 nationally, which occurred in 1992, and has been most popular in California, Texas, New York, Pennsylvania, and Illinois. In the past 5 years the name Carissa has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Carissa (2024)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| TX | 7 | |
| NY | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1949 | 5 |
| 1952 | 7 |
| 1953 | 8 |
| 1954 | 14 |
| 1955 | 9 |
| 1956 | 10 |
| 1957 | 10 |
| 1958 | 5 |
| 1959 | 8 |
| 1960 | 17 |
| 1961 | 21 |
| 1962 | 19 |
| 1963 | 25 |
| 1964 | 36 |
| 1965 | 68 |
| 1966 | 64 |
| 1967 | 70 |
| 1968 | 74 |
| 1969 | 111 |
| 1970 | 166 |
| 1971 | 207 |
| 1972 | 216 |
| 1973 | 222 |
| 1974 | 270 |
| 1975 | 308 |
| 1976 | 475 |
| 1977 | 532 |
| 1978 | 553 |
| 1979 | 686 |
| 1980 | 725 |
| 1981 | 670 |
| 1982 | 713 |
| 1983 | 738 |
| 1984 | 752 |
| 1985 | 730 |
| 1986 | 766 |
| 1987 | 734 |
| 1988 | 837 |
| 1989 | 962 |
| 1990 | 1,106 |
| 1991 | 1,109 |
| 1992 | 1,156 |
| 1993 | 977 |
| 1994 | 904 |
| 1995 | 818 |
| 1996 | 724 |
| 1997 | 659 |
| 1998 | 686 |
| 1999 | 681 |
| 2000 | 685 |
| 2001 | 708 |
| 2002 | 692 |
| 2003 | 648 |
| 2004 | 625 |
| 2005 | 497 |
| 2006 | 502 |
| 2007 | 477 |
| 2008 | 408 |
| 2009 | 326 |
| 2010 | 324 |
| 2011 | 285 |
| 2012 | 265 |
| 2013 | 211 |
| 2014 | 167 |
| 2015 | 164 |
| 2016 | 128 |
| 2017 | 130 |
| 2018 | 98 |
| 2019 | 84 |
| 2020 | 90 |
| 2021 | 71 |
| 2022 | 50 |
| 2023 | 57 |
| 2024 | 45 |