Holding steady.
Popularity of Ellyssa since 1988
Babies named Ellyssa per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1980s | 11 |
| 1990s | 95 |
| 2000s | 128 |
| 2010s | 86 |
| 2020s | 5 |
Meaning & origin
Ellyssa is a modern feminine name that first appeared in U.S. records in 1988, with a peak in 2011. It has remained below the top 1000, reflecting its status as a creative variant rather than a mainstream choice. The name is a respelling of Elissa, itself a form of Elizabeth, connecting it to a long tradition of biblical names. Its stable trajectory since the 1990s suggests steady but low usage, appealing to parents seeking a distinctive yet familiar-sounding name.
Ellyssa is a modern variant of Elissa, a Hebrew name derived from Elisheva, meaning 'God is abundance' or 'my God has sworn'. The name Elissa also appears as the Phoenician name of Dido, the legendary founder of Carthage, though that connection is debated. Ellyssa likely emerged as a creative spelling in the late 20th century, influenced by names like Elyse and Alyssa.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Ellie, Elly, Lyss, Lyssa
Sibling names for Ellyssa
Names that share Ellyssa's style, for a brother or sister.
