US Popularity Rank: 2168

Origin: Latin

Meaning: bright, famous

It's no wonder Clarissa could explain it all, what with its meaning of "bright." This girl's name can also mean "famous" and comes from the Latin name Clara. Originally, it was used to denote a nun from the Order of Poor Ladies, and took St. Clare's given name, Clara, and added the -issa suffix. Your little one will find this name across books, television, and movies, including in main character Clary, or Clarissa, Fray in The Mortal Instruments. You'll also find the Anglicized form, Clarice, in The Silence of the Lambs with protagonist and FBI agent Clarice Starling.