What does Malissa mean and where does it come from?
Malissa is a variant of Melissa, which is derived from the Greek word 'melissa' meaning 'honey bee'. The name has been used since ancient times and has its roots in Greek mythology, where Melissa was a nymph who cared for the infant Zeus. In modern usage, Malissa has been found primarily in the Unit
Cultural significance
Malissa has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of bee.
Peak popularity
Reached #348 in 1880 — currently #12958 in the US.
Rising fast — up 3863 spots — currently #12958 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#12958 · Top 9.6%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#12958
7
▲ up 3863 · +40% births
2022
#16821
5
▼ down 2212 · -17% births
2021
#14609
6
▼ down 3629 · -25% births
2020
#10980
8
▼ down 1512 · -27% births
2015
#9468
11
▼ down 245 · -8% births
2010
#9223
12
▼ down 4850 · -61% births
2005
#4373
31
▼ down 708 · -11% births
2000
#3665
35
▼ down 1448 · -42% births
1995
#2217
60
▼ down 1071 · -60% births
1990
#1146
150
▼ down 217 · -12% births
1985
#929
170
▼ down 137 · -18% births
1980
#792
207
▼ down 134 · -10% births
1975
#658
231
▼ down 28 · -13% births
1970
#630
265
▲ up 263 · +110% births
1965
#893
126
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Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Malissa
1970Rank #630
265
#3991
↘Falling
1900 - 202328 years
The story of Malissa
Malissa has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. With 8,834 total births recorded, Malissa remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #348 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #12958 in 2023.
Malissa means "bee" — 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 Malissa?
Malissa is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Malissa have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Malissa?
Malissa 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 Malissa?
Malissa is a three-syllable name pronounced M AE1 L IH1 S AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Malissa?
Malissa 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.
Sibling names that pair with Malissa
For a sister
Malissa & Hazel♡
Malissa & Josie♡
Malissa & Georgia♡
Malissa & Walter♡
For a brother
Malissa & John♡
Malissa & Josie♡
Malissa & Georgia♡
Malissa & Walter♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#12958
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
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