What does Melyssa mean and where does it come from?
Melyssa is a modern variation of the name Melissa, which comes from the Ancient Greek 'μέλισσα' (mélissa) meaning honey bee. The name has been used since classical antiquity and was associated with the goddess Artemis in her aspect as a protector of the bees. Melyssa became popular in the English-sp
Cultural significance
Melyssa has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of honey bee.
Peak popularity
Reached #1309 in 1989 — currently #13009 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Melyssa?
Melyssa works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Melyssa Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Melyssa Rose
Floral · soft ending
Melyssa Mae
Sweet · timeless
Melyssa Claire
French influence · crisp
Melyssa Jane
Literary · strong
Melyssa Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Melyssa right now?
Rising fast — up 1714 spots — currently #13009 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #13009 | 7 | ▲ up 1714 · +17% births |
| 2022 | #14723 | 6 | ▼ down 58 |
| 2021 | #14665 | 6 | ▼ down 3465 · -25% births |
| 2020 | #11200 | 8 | ▼ down 4698 · -58% births |
| 2015 | #6502 | 19 | ▼ down 1482 · -32% births |
| 2010 | #5020 | 28 | ▼ down 1052 · -22% births |
| 2005 | #3968 | 36 | ▼ down 199 · +6% births |
| 2000 | #3769 | 34 | ▼ down 1598 · -45% births |
| 1995 | #2171 | 62 | ▼ down 346 · -22% births |
| 1990 | #1825 | 79 | ▲ up 563 · +88% births |
| 1985 | #2388 | 42 | ▲ up 196 · +14% births |
| 1980 | #2584 | 37 | ▲ up 792 · +76% births |
| 1975 | #3376 | 21 | ▲ up 844 · +50% births |
| 1970 | #4220 | 14 | ▲ up 1056 · +75% births |
| 1965 | #5276 | 8 | — |
The story of Melyssa
Melyssa is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1965. With 2,003 total births recorded, Melyssa remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #5276 in 1965, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #13009 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Melyssa in 1989:
Melyssa by decade
Melyssa peaked in the 1980s. See all 1980s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1960s | 51 | |
| 1970s | 231 | |
| 1980s | 528 | |
| 1990s ★ | 658 | |
| 2000s | 341 | |
| 2010s | 186 | |
| 2020s | 8 | |
💎With 2,003 total births, Melyssa is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Melyssa?
ENGLISH
LissaMalindaMelMelanthaMelinaMelindaMindyMissieMissy
What names sound and feel like Melyssa?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Melyssa also consider these
How is Melyssa written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Melyssa
What does the name Melyssa mean?
Melyssa means "honey 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 Melyssa?
Melyssa 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 Melyssa?
Melyssa 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 Melyssa?
Melyssa 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.
Is Melyssa a common or rare name?
Melyssa is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.