Name Meaning & Origin
🔊 kə-RIS-ə /kəˈrɪsə/
"Beloved, dear"
Data last updated: 2025 SSA records
From the Greek 'Karizomai', meaning 'to dearly love, to cherish'. In the Bible, Carissa is not a direct name, but the name is associated with Mary, the mother of Jesus.
Carissa is a feminine given name of Greek origin derived from Greek χαρις (charis) meaning "grace." It can also be translated as "beloved." Coined by English poet Edmund Spenser in his epic poem "The Faerie Queene" (1590). Related names in other languages include Cara, Carys (Welsh), Cherie, and Cheryl (English).
the name Carissa is a Christian name that originates from Greek, and means beloved or dear one of God, and is associated with qualities of love, kindness, and compassion, and is commonly used in Chris…
Emotional Traits
Hidden Personality
Lucky Colors
Numerology: People with the name Carissa have a strong intuition, creativity and a deep sense of spirituality. They are highly sensitive, emotional and have a strong desire to help others.
Life Path 7 — Wisdom & Introspection: Analytical, spiritual, and truth-seeking.
Cultural Impact
The name Carissa is popular in the Christian world. It has a rich and unique origin, derived from the Greek words 'Karizomai', meaning 'to dearly love, to cherish'. This name is a beautiful reminder of the devoted love and selflessness that God shows towards his children and that parents have towards their children. The name Carissa evokes qualities of compassion, care, and deep love.
Spiritual Significance
Spiritually, the name Carissa is significant because it reflects the selfless love and care that God has shown towards humanity through giving us His Son, Jesus Christ. The name Carissa is also associated with the Blessed Virgin Mary, who is the embodiment of motherly love and devotion towards her Son. The name serves as a reminder of the more excellent way of love (1 Corinthians 12:31) that we, as Christians, should strive to live out in our own lives. It is a call to cherish and love others as God has loved us.
Age breakdown · state data · decade charts · popularity trend — all on the full statistics page.
Root element "Carissa" emerges in Greek tradition, carrying the core meaning "Beloved, dear".
Used in English literary and religious texts, spreading through cultural exchange.
Carried across regions through trade, religion, and migration. Multiple spelling variants develop.
Standardized in its current form. Continues to be used across multiple cultures worldwide.
~28,412 people named Carissa in the US. Peaked in 1992 with 1,156 recorded uses.
Carissa of mauretania, also known as Saint Carissa, was a Berber princess who converted to Christianity and dedicated her life to helping the poor and sick in the 4th century. She was martyred during the Roman persecution of Christians.
Carissa of the Thebaid, also known as Saint Carisso or Saint Karissa, was a desert mother and ascetic who lived in Egypt in the 4th and 5th centuries. She is known for her ascetic practices, spiritual teachings, and her role as a mother superior of a community of female ascetics.
Modern Usage
Carissa is a modern name often associated with minimalist, self-care, and sustainable lifestyles. On Instagram, Carissa accounts showcase minimalist home decor and personal style. On Pinterest, Carissa boards reflect self-care rituals and sustainable living tips. Blogs written by Carissas discuss topics like mindfulness, vegan recipes, and eco-friendly DIY projects.
Carissa means "Beloved, dear" and is a popular Christian name with deep spiritual significance.
Yes, Carissa is a beautiful Christian name that carries positive meaning and is widely used in Christian communities around the world.
Carissa has Greek origins and is rooted in Christian tradition and culture.
The Life Path number for Carissa is 7, associated with Wisdom & Introspection. Soul Urge: 11. Personality: 5.
Carissa is Predominantly Female. Based on US data, 0% male and 100% female.
Approximately 28,412 people in the United States are named Carissa. The name peaked in 1992 with 1,156 recorded uses.
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