Holding steady.
Popularity of Calisha since 1975
Babies named Calisha per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 32 |
| 1980s | 119 |
| 1990s | 75 |
| 2000s | 14 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Calisha is a rare modern coinage that first appeared in the United States in 1975. It never entered the top 1000 names and has remained extremely uncommon, with an estimated fewer than five births per year in recent decades. Its peak year was 1982, when it saw its highest ever usage, though still well below statistical thresholds. The trajectory of the name has been stable, indicating consistent but very low usage since the 1970s. Common nicknames include Cali and Lisha. Despite its rarity, the name fits within a broader tradition of African American invented names ending with the -isha sound, alongside similar names like Keisha and Tanisha.
Calisha first appeared in the United States in the 1970s, likely as a modern coinage blending sounds from names such as Calista, Alisha, or Keisha. The -isha ending became popular in African American naming traditions during the late 20th century. The name has never been in widespread use, but it saw a small peak in 1982.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Cali, Lisha
Sibling names for Calisha
Names that share Calisha's style, for a brother or sister.
