Holding steady.
Popularity of Claressa since 1928
Babies named Claressa per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1920s | 5 |
| 1930s | 12 |
| 1940s | 5 |
| 1950s | 43 |
| 1960s | 55 |
| 1970s | 89 |
| 1980s | 135 |
| 1990s | 65 |
| 2000s | 9 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Claressa is a rare American feminine name that first appeared in records in 1928. It reached its peak popularity in 1983, and since then its usage has remained stable but uncommon, never breaking into the top 1,000 names nationally. The name derives from Clarence, a Latin title meaning 'bright,' and is a stylish alternative to the more common Clarissa. While it lacks top state concentrations, Claressa has a vintage appeal that fits the revived interest in late 20th century names. Its trajectory suggests a consistent but niche choice for parents seeking a distinctive yet familiar-sounding name.
Claressa is a feminine elaboration of the male name Clarence, which derives from the Latin title Clarensis (meaning 'of Clare' or 'bright'). Clarence was used by the English aristocracy, notably the Dukes of Clarence, and the feminine form Claressa emerged in the early 20th century as a more ornate alternative to Clara. The name saw modest use in the United States, peaking in the 1980s.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Clare, Essa, Clara, Clarrie
Sibling names for Claressa
Names that share Claressa's style, for a brother or sister.
