Meaning, origin, history
Melissa is a feminine given name of Greek origin. The name Melissa comes from the Greek word "melissa," which means "honey bee." According to Greek mythology, Melissa was the name of a nymph who discovered honey and taught humans how to gather it. As such, the name Melissa has been associated with sweetness, charm, and beauty since ancient times.
The use of the name Melissa can be traced back to classical Greek literature, where it appears in works by authors such as Sappho and Euripides. In the modern era, Melissa gained popularity as a given name during the 1970s and 1980s, particularly in English-speaking countries. Today, Melissa remains a popular choice for parents seeking a classic yet unique feminine name with a strong historical and cultural heritage.
Some notable individuals named Melissa include American actress Melissa Gilbert, Australian singer-songwriter Melissa Ferrick, and British author Melissa Lee-Houghton. Despite its ancient origins, the name Melissa continues to be embraced by people around the world as a timeless and beautiful choice for a girl's name.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Melissa since 1880
Total births
758,550
Total since 1880
Peak year
1979
34,050 births
in 2023
742
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-21%
↘
vs previous 5 years