“Honeybee” — Symbolizes sweetness and industriousness due to bees’ reputations
Greek origin · Girl name
♂ 0% boys♀ 100% girls
#410US 2023
743Births / yr
↓Falling
758.6kAll-time births
📅 Since 1880🏆 44 years in top 1001.75% of births at peak
How to pronounce Melissa
mul·IS·uh
/məl.ˈɪs.ə/ · stress on IS · 3 syllables
“Honeybee”
Symbolizes sweetness and industriousness due to bees’ reputations · Greek origin
What does Melissa mean and where does it come from?
Originating from the Greek word 'melissa' (μελίσσα) for honeybee, the name Melissa became popular in the English-speaking world during the 20th century. It often symbolizes sweetness and industriousness due to bees’ reputations. Historically, the name appeared in Greek mythology as Melissa, a nymph
Cultural significance
Melissa has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greek-speaking communities, where it reflects values of honeybee.
Declining — down 31 spots — currently #410 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#410 · Top 0.30%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#410
743
▼ down 31 · -10% births
2022
#379
823
▼ down 7 · -2% births
2021
#372
836
▼ down 24 · -5% births
2020
#348
881
▼ down 95 · -31% births
2015
#253
1,281
▼ down 97 · -34% births
2010
#156
1,949
▼ down 52 · -37% births
2005
#104
3,084
▼ down 33 · -32% births
2000
#71
4,529
▼ down 36 · -43% births
1995
#35
7,877
▼ down 15 · -44% births
1990
#20
13,998
▼ down 9 · -30% births
1985
#11
19,956
▼ down 7 · -37% births
1980
#4
31,636
stable · +31% births
1975
#4
24,165
▲ up 3 · +2% births
1970
#7
23,737
▲ up 31 · +125% births
1965
#38
10,565
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Melissa
1975Rank #4
31,636
#369
↗Rising
1900 - 202328 years
The story of Melissa
Melissa has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. It peaked at #2 in 1977, placing it among the top 10 most popular names. Over 759K babies have been given this name — a true American classic. Melissa is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Melissa means "Honeybee" — a name rooted in Greek 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 Melissa?
Melissa is currently ranked #410 in the United States as a baby 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 Melissa?
Melissa originates from Greek tradition. Greek 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 Melissa?
Melissa is a three-syllable name pronounced M AH0 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 Melissa?
Melissa pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Greek 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 Melissa
For a sister
Melissa & Katherine♡
Melissa & Adonis♡
Melissa & Selena♡
Melissa & Daphne♡
For a brother
Melissa & Adonis♡
Melissa & Selena♡
Melissa & Daphne♡
Melissa & Hector♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#410
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
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