MallowbyNames

Nyssa

NISS-uh · Derived from the Greek word 'nyssa' meaning 'goal' or 'beginning', or possibly from the place name Nysa in Greek mythology.

2025 rank (girls)
#6,325
Babies named in 2025
18
Peak popularity
2003
2025 frequency
1 in 89,293 girls
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Declining since 2003

Declining since 2003, #6,325 for girls today.

Popularity of Nyssa since 1970

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

3773110198020002020Most births 2003Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1970s68
1980s377
1990s413
2000s577
2010s288
2020s107

Meaning & origin

Nyssa is a girl's name of Greek origin, first recorded in U.S. data in 1970. Its rank in 2025 is 6325, representing a frequency of 1 in 89293 births. The name peaked in popularity in 2003 and has been declining since then. Nyssa was most common in New York during its peak. With a sound similar to 'Nissa' and mythological undertones, Nyssa appeals to parents seeking a short, uncommon name with classical roots. Its rarity and gentle cadence make it a distinctive choice that remains light and accessible.

The name Nyssa is of Greek origin, likely derived from 'nyssa' (goal) or from Nysa, a mythical mountain associated with the childhood of Dionysus. It was also the name of a 4th-century Christian saint, Saint Nyssa. The name has been used sporadically in English-speaking countries since the 20th century.

Where Nyssa is most popular

Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Nys

Variants: Nissa

Sibling names for Nyssa

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

Sisters: Iris, Thalia, Phoebe, Lyra, Elara

Brothers: Atlas, Orion, Cyrus, Silas, Leo

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

N is for Nyssa, our favorite little girl.

N is for Nyssa…”

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

Make Nyssa's book

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

Questions parents ask

What does the name Nyssa mean?
Nyssa most likely derives from the Greek word 'nyssa', meaning 'goal' or 'beginning', or from the mythological place Nysa.
How popular is the name Nyssa?
Nyssa ranked 6325 in the United States in 2025, with a frequency of about 1 in 89293 births.
Is Nyssa a boy or girl name?
Nyssa is predominantly a girl's name.