Holding steady.
Popularity of Morissa since 1974
Babies named Morissa per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 17 |
| 1980s | 48 |
| 1990s | 105 |
| 2000s | 26 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
The name Morissa is a rare and modern coinage, first appearing in U.S. Social Security records in 1974. Its meaning remains uncertain, leading some to associate it with the popular name Marissa, while others consider it a unique invention. Morissa has never entered the top 1000 rankings, reflecting its niche appeal. The name achieved its highest recorded usage in 1994, and it has maintained a stable but very low level of use since then. With no strong regional concentration, Morissa remains a distinctive choice for parents seeking a name that feels both familiar and uncommon.
Morissa first appeared in U.S. records in 1974, suggesting it is a modern coinage. It may be an elaboration of the name Moria or a variation of Marissa, itself derived from the Latin maris meaning 'of the sea.' Alternatively, it could be a simple combination of popular sounds, with the 'Mor-' prefix seen in names like Morgan and Morris. The name has remained rare, with a peak in 1994.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Rissa, Mori, Issa
Sibling names for Morissa
Names that share Morissa's style, for a brother or sister.
