Nyssa is a unique and captivating feminine given name of Greek origin. The name is derived from the Greek word "nyssos," which means "basilisk" or "mythical reptile." In Greek mythology, Nyssa was also the daughter of King Thestius of Pleuron and sister to Atalanta, one of the most celebrated heroines in Greek mythology. However, it is important to note that the name Nyssa itself does not have any direct association with these mythological figures or their stories.
The name Nyssa has gained popularity in recent years due to its distinct sound and unique spelling. Despite its unusual origin and meaning, Nyssa has not been widely used throughout history, making it a refreshing alternative to more traditional feminine names. It is often associated with uniqueness, mystery, and perhaps even a touch of mystique.
Nyssa does not have any specific holidays or celebrations dedicated to it, nor are there any widely recognized saints or historical figures named Nyssa that could attribute special significance to the name. However, this lack of widespread use also allows for individuals bearing the name Nyssa to create their own personal connections and meanings associated with it.
In summary, Nyssa is a rare and intriguing feminine given name of Greek origin, derived from the word "nyssos" meaning "basilisk." While not directly tied to any specific historical figures or events, its unique sound and spelling make it an attractive option for parents seeking a distinctive name for their child. The name Nyssa offers an opportunity for individuals to create their own personal connections and meanings associated with it.
Based on the statistics provided, the name Nyssa has experienced significant fluctuations in popularity over the past five decades in the United States.
From the years 1970 to 1973, there were fewer than ten births per year with the name Nyssa. However, starting from 1978, there was a noticeable increase in its usage, with more than ten births each year until 1984.
The peak of popularity for the name Nyssa occurred between 1983 and 1985, during which time over fifty babies were named Nyssa annually. Specifically, in 1983, there were 22 births, followed by a notable increase to 52 births in both 1984 and 1985.
After this peak, the number of babies named Nyssa began to decline gradually. By the late 1990s, fewer than fifty babies were being named Nyssa each year. This trend continued into the early 2000s, with only a handful of births per year from 2003 onwards.
Despite this decrease in popularity, the name Nyssa has maintained some level of usage throughout the years. For instance, there were 73 births in 2002 and 110 births in 2003, suggesting that while it may not be a highly popular choice, the name Nyssa continues to appear among baby names.
More recently, from 2016 to 2023, there have been between nineteen and forty births per year with the name Nyssa. This indicates that while it is no longer as common as it once was, the name Nyssa remains a viable choice for parents in the United States.
In total, based on the data provided, there have been 1799 babies named Nyssa born in the United States since records began in 1970.