US Popularity Rank: 24297

Origin: Latin

Meaning: Of the sea

Merissa, which is a version of the Latin name Marissa, means "of the sea." It's derived from the name Maris, which comes from the phrase stella maris. This saying means "star of the sea" and is usually used in reference to Christianity's Virgin Mary. Thanks to iconic noughties character Marissa Cooper from The O.C., Merissa has the perfect dose of nostalgia and charm.