What does Calisa mean and where does it come from?
Calisa is a contemporary name that gained traction in the late 20th century, particularly in the United States. It may also be connected to names that draw from Arabic and Hebrew roots, linking it to meanings of purity. The name is relatively uncommon, making it a unique choice for parents.
Cultural significance
Calisa has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of a modern variation of the name 'khalisa', meaning 'pure' or 'noble'..
Peak popularity
Reached #6426 in 1986 — currently #616 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Calisa?
Calisa works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Calisa Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Calisa Rose
Floral · soft ending
Calisa Mae
Sweet · timeless
Calisa Claire
French influence · crisp
Calisa Jane
Literary · strong
Calisa Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Calisa right now?
Holding steady — currently #616 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #616 | 1,584 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #621 | 1,564 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #626 | 1,534 | ▲ up 12651 · +21814% births |
| 2015 | #13277 | 7 | ▲ up 1678 · +17% births |
| 2005 | #14955 | 6 | ▼ down 3900 · -25% births |
| 2000 | #11055 | 8 | ▲ up 2610 · +60% births |
| 1990 | #13665 | 5 | ▼ down 2451 |
| 1980 | #11214 | 5 | ▼ down 2192 |
| 1970 | #9022 | 5 | — |
The story of Calisa
Calisa is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1970. With 158 total births recorded, Calisa remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #9022 in 1970 to #616 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Calisa in 1986:
Calisa by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1970s | 32 | |
| 1980s | 36 | |
| 1990s ★ | 38 | |
| 2000s | 30 | |
| 2010s | 22 | |
💎Calisa has only 158 total recorded births since 1970 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Calisa?
What names sound and feel like Calisa?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Calisa also consider these
Common questions about the name Calisa
What does the name Calisa mean?
Calisa means "A modern variation of the name 'Khalisa', meaning 'pure' or 'noble'." — a name rooted in American tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Calisa?
Calisa is currently ranked #616 as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Calisa?
Calisa originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
What sibling names go well with Calisa?
Calisa pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar American heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.
What are good nicknames for Calisa?
Calisa naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.