Melissa
Girl name · 4,084 babies recorded · 1974–2025
Melissa: 4,084 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 224 births in 1994.
Derived from the Greek μέλισσα (melissa) meaning "honey bee," Melissa has ancient mythological roots, tied to the nymph who fed the infant Zeus honey. One of its most famous modern bearers is the American singer Melissa Etheridge, known for her raspy vocals and activism. There is no major place named directly for a Melissa, though the root appears in the botanical genus Melissa (lemon balm), prized for its soothing properties. As a variant, Melanie shares a related Greek origin meaning "dark," but Melissa remains distinct and sweetly pastoral. The name enjoyed particular popularity in Scotland during the 1970s and 1980s, reflecting a broader Anglophone trend.
Girl 52 of 52 years
- Peak year
- 1994224 babies
- Latest (2025)
- #4746 babies
- Total births
- 4,084since 1974
- 5-year trend
- ▼ 51%vs prior 5y