US Popularity Rank: 2878

Origin: Portuguese

Meaning: Of the Sea; Sea of bitterness; Rebellious; Beloved; Wished-for child; Famous warrior

Deriving from the Latin name Maris, Marissa is a beautiful girl’s name that means “of the sea.” This evocative meaning may conjure images of mermaids with seaweed hair rising from the waves, or could elicit comparisons to the ocean’s power. The sea covers 70% of the earth’s surface and holds many mysteries that humans have yet to uncover. If you hope that baby will grow into a deep, strong, and enigmatic woman who knows how to take up space, then Marissa is the perfect choice. Marissa can also be an English version of the Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese name Marisa, a blend of the names Maria and Luisa. Maria, from Mary, has a variety of translations, including "sea of bitterness," "rebellious," "beloved," and "wished-for child." Luisa, on the other hand, comes from Louis, meaning "famous warrior." This is sure to give your little one plenty of inspiration with all sorts of meanings under their title. Millennial parents may also get a kick out of giving their daughter the same name as Marissa Cooper, the heroine of the teen television show The O.C. If you are more drawn to the maritime aspect of the name, then you will like knowing that baby is imbued with a lifelong love of the sea.