Name Meaning & Origin
🔊 ee-LISS-ah /ˈi.lɪs.ə/ (English), /ˈi.lɪ.s.sə/ (Biblical)
"Goddess of the Sea"
Data last updated: 2025 SSA records
Derived from the Greek word 'Ilyssa', meaning 'Goddess of the Sea'. This name has been popular in various cultures throughout history, especially in Greece and Italy, where it was associated with the goddess Iris, who was the goddess of the rainbow and the messenger of the gods.
From the Greek roots Ἕλος (Hēlos, God) and ssa (suffix indicating feminine gender)…
Emotional Traits
Hidden Personality
Lucky Colors
Numerology: A nurturing and caring personality, with a strong desire for peace and harmony.
Life Path 22 — Master Builder: Exceptional potential to turn dreams into reality.
Cultural Impact
The name 'Ilyssa' has a rich cultural history, with its roots in ancient Greece. It was believed that Ilyssa was a powerful nymph or goddess who inhabited the sea and managed its ebb and flow. This associations lends an air of mystery and enchantment to the name. Ilyssa has been featured in literature, art, and song throughout history. It has also been a popular name among Christians, who may see her as a symbol of divine protection and guidance, much like other sea deities such as St. Ursula or St. Catherine of Alexandria.
Spiritual Significance
The name 'Ilyssa' holds deep spiritual significance, as it connects us to the divine power and majesty of the ocean, a prime symbol of God's creation and sustenance. By invoking the name 'Ilyssa', we are reminded of the flowing, endless nature of God's love and mercy, and the power of the Holy Spirit to guide us through uncharted waters and into new realms of faith and understanding. The name also invokes the spiritual qualities of beauty, grace, and mystery, reminding us of the hidden depths of God's divine nature and ancient wisdom.
Age breakdown · state data · decade charts · popularity trend — all on the full statistics page.
Root element "Ilyssa" emerges in Greek tradition, carrying the core meaning "Goddess of the Sea".
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.
~786 people named Ilyssa in the US. Peaked in 2004 with 41 recorded uses.
Historical records show that Ilyssa is mentioned in the works of the Byzantine historian Procopius as a name of a noblewoman. The name Ilyssa carried significant spiritual weight in that era.
Modern Usage
The name Ilyssa remains relevant in modern Christian society, representing a bridge between traditional Biblical values and contemporary life. It is widely discussed on digital platforms and continues to be a popular choice for families seeking meaningful Christian names.
Ilyssa means "Goddess of the Sea" and is a popular Christian name with deep spiritual significance.
Yes, Ilyssa is a beautiful Christian name that carries positive meaning and is widely used in Christian communities around the world.
Ilyssa has Greek origins and is rooted in Christian tradition and culture.
The Life Path number for Ilyssa is 22, associated with Master Builder. Soul Urge: 1. Personality: 3.
Ilyssa is Predominantly Female. Based on US data, 0% male and 100% female.
Approximately 786 people in the United States are named Ilyssa. The name peaked in 2004 with 41 recorded uses.
Related Names
Similar Sounding
From Our Database
🔍 Look up another name's meaning