Melissa: Name Meaning, Origin, & Popularity

Girl name origins & meanings

What does Melissa mean and stand for?

Meaning:

Greek: Honey bee
Latin: Sweet

Gender: Female

Syllables: 3

Pronunciation: The name Melissa is pronounced muh-lis-uh

The name Melissa has ancient Greek origins, derived from the word melissa, which means "honey bee." In mythology, Melissa was a nymph who discovered and taught the use of honey. The name implies sweetness and industriousness, characteristics often associated with the beloved bee.

Girl name variations

Famous people with this first name

Melissa Etheridge

Famous people who gave their babies this name

Joanne Woodward

Paul Newman

Melissa in Pop Culture

Do you know these fictional characters that share this first name?

Melissa Hastings from Pretty Little Liars - Melissa Hastings is known for her complex and often mysterious role in the series.Popularity of the Name Melissa
Melissa Gold from Marvel Comics' Thunderbolts - Also known as Songbird, Melissa Gold is a superhero with a troubled past and a powerful, sonic scream.
Melissa McCall from Teen Wolf - She is the dedicated and caring mother of the show's protagonist, Scott McCall.
Melissa Chartres from The Last Man on Earth - A resourceful and tough character who navigates a post-apocalyptic world with wit and strength.
Melissa Shield from My Hero Academia - A genius inventor and the niece of a prominent hero, she plays a key role in the anime's movie.

Popularity of the Name Melissa

According to the Social Security Administration, Melissa has experienced fluctuating popularity over the years. It was particularly trendy in the 1970s and 1980s, frequently ranking within the top 10 names for baby girls during that period. Although its popularity has waned in recent years, Melissa remains a classic choice.

Historically, the name finds its roots in Greek mythology, where Melissa was a nymph who cared for the infant Zeus. Notable people named Melissa include actress Melissa McCarthy, known for her roles in Bridesmaids and the TV series Gilmore Girls, as well as singer Melissa Etheridge. In literature and media, Melissa is a character in The Secret Circle novels by L.J. Smith and has appeared in various other works of fiction, solidifying its presence in popular culture.