What does Lissa mean and where does it come from?
Lissa is often used as a diminutive of Elizabeth. The name gained popularity in the United States during the 20th century. It is also found in Sweden, where it is considered a standalone name. Lissa has become popular due to fictional characters in literature and television. Variants of the name inc
Cultural significance
Lissa has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of a diminutive of elizabeth, meaning 'god is my oath'..
Peak popularity
Reached #960 in 1958 — currently #10016 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Lissa?
Lissa works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Lissa Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Lissa Rose
Floral · soft ending
Lissa Mae
Sweet · timeless
Lissa Claire
French influence · crisp
Lissa Jane
Literary · strong
Lissa Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Lissa right now?
Falling — down 1706 spots — currently #10016 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #10016 | 10 | ▼ down 1706 · -23% births |
| 2022 | #8310 | 13 | ▼ down 13 |
| 2021 | #8297 | 13 | ▲ up 106 · +8% births |
| 2020 | #8403 | 12 | ▲ up 1144 · +9% births |
| 2015 | #9547 | 11 | ▼ down 255 · -8% births |
| 2010 | #9292 | 12 | ▼ down 3462 · -43% births |
| 2005 | #5830 | 21 | ▲ up 1388 · +50% births |
| 2000 | #7218 | 14 | ▼ down 3912 · -59% births |
| 1995 | #3306 | 34 | ▼ down 1472 · -56% births |
| 1990 | #1834 | 78 | ▼ down 118 · +16% births |
| 1985 | #1716 | 67 | ▼ down 20 |
| 1980 | #1696 | 67 | ▲ up 166 · +37% births |
| 1975 | #1862 | 49 | ▼ down 607 · -45% births |
| 1970 | #1255 | 89 | ▼ down 125 · +1% births |
| 1965 | #1130 | 88 | — |
The story of Lissa
Lissa entered American naming records in 1923 and has been in use for over 101 years. With 3,916 total births recorded, Lissa remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #5003 in 1945, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #10016 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Lissa in 1958:
Lissa by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1920s | 5 | |
| 1930s | 8 | |
| 1940s | 137 | |
| 1950s | 761 | |
| 1960s ★ | 989 | |
| 1970s | 693 | |
| 1980s | 596 | |
| 1990s | 404 | |
| 2000s | 180 | |
| 2010s | 131 | |
| 2020s | 12 | |
💎With 3,916 total births, Lissa is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Lissa?
What names sound and feel like Lissa?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Lissa also consider these
How is Lissa written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Lissa
What does the name Lissa mean?
Lissa means "A diminutive of Elizabeth, meaning 'God is my oath'." — 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 Lissa?
Lissa is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Lissa?
Lissa 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.
How do you pronounce the name Lissa?
Lissa is a two-syllable name pronounced L IH1 S AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Lissa a common or rare name?
Lissa is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.