Charissa Name Meaning & Details

In contemporary naming practices, Charissa occupies an interesting space as a recognizable but uncommon choice. While it never reached the popularity heights of similar names like Melissa or Clarissa, its consistent but modest usage since the 1960s has given it a timeless quality. Current naming trends show parents increasingly selecting names with positive meanings and classical roots, which positions Charissa well for potential renewed interest. The name maintains particular appeal among educated, literary-minded parents who appreciate its Spenserian origins and mythological connections. Social media analysis shows that modern Charissas often work in helping professions—education, healthcare, counseling—or creative fields where their natural empathy and aesthetic sense can flourish. The name's relative rarity in the 21st century makes it distinctive without being unfamiliar, and its clear pronunciation across languages adds to its international appeal. Current birth records indicate it's chosen approximately 50-100 times annually in the United States, making it familiar enough to be easily accepted but uncommon enough to stand out.