MallowbyNames

Carisa

kuh-REE-suh · Of uncertain origin; possibly a modern variant of Carissa or a feminine form of Cary.

Peak popularity
1977
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Declining since 1985

Declining since 1985.

Popularity of Carisa since 1958

Babies named Carisa per year in U.S. Social Security records.

671332001960198020002020Most births 1977Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1950s6
1960s161
1970s1,368
1980s712
1990s417
2000s278
2010s78
2020s5

Meaning & origin

Carisa is a modern name that first appeared in U.S. birth records in 1958. Its rise to a peak in 1977 reflects the mid-20th century trend for melodic, feminine names with a soft 'C' sound. Since 1985, the name has been in steady decline, and it no longer ranks among the top 1000 names as of the most recent data. The trajectory suggests it was a short-lived favorite, particularly during the 1970s when it saw its highest usage. With no strong historical or etymological roots, Carisa remains a distinctive but fading choice, likely influenced by the more common variant Carissa.

Carisa is a name of uncertain origin, likely a modern coinage or variant spelling. It may be derived from the Greek name Carissa, meaning 'grace' or 'kindness,' or it could be a feminine form of Cary, an English surname from a place name. The name first appeared in U.S. records in 1958 and saw its peak usage in 1977, with a gradual decline since the mid-1980s.

Nicknames & variants

Variants: Carissa, Karisa, Charissa

Sibling names for Carisa

Names that share Carisa's style, for a brother or sister.

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

C is for Carisa, our favorite little girl.

C is for Carisa…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Carisa's letter becomes Carisa's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Carisa's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Carisa mean?
The meaning of Carisa is uncertain. It is often considered a variant of Carissa, which may derive from the Greek word for 'grace' or from the Latin 'carus' meaning 'dear.'
How popular is the name Carisa?
Carisa is not currently in the top 1000 names. Its highest rank came in 1977, when it peaked in usage. Since 1985, its popularity has steadily declined.
Is Carisa a girl's name?
Yes, Carisa is almost exclusively used as a girl's name.