Caryssa is a unique and captivating female given name of Greek origin. The name is derived from the Greek word "karyon," which means "nut." This association with nuts is believed to have come about because of their resemblance to the kernel of the brain, reflecting intelligence or wisdom.
The name Caryssa was popularized in modern times by the Australian actress and model, Carys Zeta Douglas, who was born on October 30th, 1974. She is known for her roles in films such as "The Mask of Zorro" (1998) and "Traffic" (2000), among others. Her mother, actress Catherine Zeta-Jones, chose the name Carys for her daughter, which was then anglicized to Caryssa.
While Caryssa may not have a historical or mythological figure attached to it like some other Greek names, its meaning and unique sound have made it an appealing choice for parents seeking a distinctive name for their daughters. It is often associated with creativity, intelligence, and individuality, reflecting the nut's connection to wisdom and the brain.
Today, Caryssa continues to be a rare but beautiful name, carrying the strength of its Greek origins while also bearing the charm of its modern-day celebrity namesake. It is a name that commands attention and suggests uniqueness, making it an excellent choice for parents looking for something special for their baby girl.
The name Caryssa has seen a varying number of births annually in the United States over the past few decades. Between 1989 and 2012, there were a total of 198 babies named Caryssa born in the U.S.
The highest number of births occurred in 1996 and 1997 with 12 babies each year. The lowest number of births happened in 2002 and 2011 with only 5 babies each year. There were two years, 2008 and 2012, where the birth count returned to 12.
Overall, the name Caryssa has maintained a steady presence among baby names in the United States, with fluctuations in popularity over time.