Clarissa

The first name Clarissa is the extended form as well as a medieval Latin derivation of Clara, a Romance form of Klara. In English translation, it carries the meanings 'the Shining', 'the Bright', 'the Clear', 'the Light', and 'the Famous'.

What does the name Clarissa mean?

Clarissa is a female first name that is considered an extended form and medieval Latin derivation of Clara, which in turn is a Romance variant of Klara. Translated into English, the name means 'the Shining', 'the Bright', 'the Clear', 'the Light', and 'the Famous'. The origin of the name goes back to the ancient Roman first name Clarus, which is derived from the Latin word clārus and encompasses terms such as 'clear', 'bright', 'shining', 'radiant', 'distinct', 'famous', 'upright', and 'respected'. Clarissa became known through Saint Clara of Montefalco, also called Chiara da Montefalco, who lived as an Augustinian and abbess. Previously, she was a member of the Third Order of Saint Francis. Other variants include Klarissa, Klarisse, Klarisa, Clarigna, Clarisse, Claressa, Clarinda, Clarinde, Claartja, and Claartje. In Germany, the name became popular in the 18th century through the novella 'Clarissa' by Samuel Richardson.

Where does the name Clarissa come from?

The etymology of Clarissa is Latin and means 'the Shining'. The Latin word clārus consists of meanings such as 'clear', 'bright', 'shining', 'radiant', 'distinct', 'famous', 'upright', and 'respected'. The name is widespread in several languages, including American, German, English, and Italian.

How do you pronounce Clarissa?

The pronunciation of Clarissa is three syllables and rhythmically clear. In German, the name is pronounced as 'Cla-ris-sa' [klaˈʁɪsa] and begins with a distinctive consonant cluster that gives the sound structure. The stressed middle syllable adds additional dynamism to the pronunciation. The double S structure creates a fine tension, while the final 'a' gently fades away. Clarissa conveys an elegant and confident impression - classic, sonorous, and feminine.

When is the name day of Clarissa?

The name days for Clarissa are celebrated on August 11 and August 17.

Popularity

In Germany, the first name Clarissa enjoys high popularity. Currently, it ranks 960th in the list of the most common female first names. Its best placement was in 1930 when it reached 251st place. In the last ten years, Clarissa has been chosen as a first name about 550 times, placing it 794th in the ten-year statistics. For the period from 2010 to 2024, it ranks 739th.

Nicknames & pet names

Carlrissa / Cassi / Cassie / Claerchen / Claire / Clara / Clare / Clari / Clarinette / Clariss / Clarizzle / Claruessel / Clary / Classa / Clatsch / Clatschi / Clee / Clissy / Clärchen / Clärie / Clärle / Daissa / Issa / Issy / Lacrissa / Lissi / Lissy / Nissa / Rissa / Rissi / Rissy / Sissa

Similar first names

Clarisa

Famous people

• Agatha Marie Clarissa Christie (writer)
• Claressa Shields (professional boxer)
• Clarissa Adele Morgenstern (book character 'The Mortal Instruments')
• Clarissa Belknap Dixon (American writer)
• Clarissa Burt (American actress)
• Clarissa Chun (American wrestler)
• Clarissa Claretti (Italian athlete)
• Clarissa Crotta (Swiss equestrian)
• Clarissa Davis (American basketball player)
• Clarissa Delany (American writer)
• Clarissa Handel (German actress)
• Clarissa House (Australian actress)
• Clarissa Kaye (Australian actress)
• Clarissa Minnie Thompson Allen (Taiwanese writer)
• Clarissa Ocampo (American musician)
• Clarissa Parish (artist from the UK)
• Clarissa Pinkola Estes (writer)
• Clarissa Santos (Brazilian basketball player)
• Clarissa Sligh (American writer)
• Clarissa Stadler (presenter)