Clarissa

Origin

The name Clarissa originates from the Latin name Clarissa, derived from the Latin 'Clarus', meaning 'bright', 'famous', or 'clear'. It entered use in English through the Latin form, popularised in the 17th and 18th centuries. It is not of Aboriginal or Māori origin but is widely used in Australian settings due to its classical and literary appeal.

Meaning

Literal: 'bright', 'famous', or 'clear'. In Australian English contexts, it connotes elegance and clarity, often associated with purity and nobility due to its Latin roots.

Pronunciation

/kləˈrɪsə/ - emphasised on the second syllable, with a soft 's', commonly pronounced in Australian English as 'Clair-iss-a'.; stress pattern: second syllable.

Variants & Nicknames

Name Days

• 24 April (Feast of Saint Clarissa, a Christian martyr)
• 14 October (International Day of the Girl, sometimes associated with notable women named Clarissa in educational campaigns)
• No fixed date in traditional Australian celebrations, but occasionally commemorated in Anglican and Catholic liturgical calendars as a tribute to saints with the name Clarissa.

Name Pairings

Names that pair well with clarissa:

• Charlotte and Olivia
• Mia and Sophie','Emily and Grace
• Sophie and Amelia

Fun Facts

• The novel 'Clarissa' by Samuel Richardson (1748) is one of the longest English novels, and this has influenced the intellectual perception of the name.
• Several Australian actresses and singers, such as Clarissa White and Clarissa Ward, have contributed to the name’s popularity in media circles.
• In Australian literature and media, characters named Clarissa are often portrayed as intelligent and sophisticated.

Personality Traits

Common traits associated with the name clarissa:

• Elegant
• Intelligent
• Refined
• Creative

Aesthetic Qualities

Elegant and classic, visually appealing with its smooth, flowing sound and symmetrical spelling. Often associated with vintage or Victorian aesthetics.

Geographical Distribution

Fairly common in urban centres like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, particularly among families with a preference for classical or literary names. Less common in rural and Indigenous communities.

Numerological Significance

Name Number: 7, suggesting introspection, analytical thinking, and a deep love of knowledge; often linked with success in academic and spiritual pursuits.

Astrological Connections

Associated with the zodiac signs Virgo and Aquarius, aligning with traits of intellect, refinement, and originality, which complement the name’s historical and cultural connotations.

Historical Context

The name gained literary prominence through Samuel Richardson's novel 'Clarissa', which was highly influential during the 18th century. It is also associated with saintly figures in Christian hagiography, though less so in contemporary Australian religious practice.

Linguistic Adaptability

The name adapts well across language barriers, with phonetic equivalents in multiple languages such as 'Clara' in Spanish and Italian, and 'Clarice' in French and English.

Famous People Named clarissa

• Clarissa Dickson Wright (British celebrity chef)
• Clarissa Ward (Australian-American journalist)
• Clarissa Kaye (Australian actress)

Popularity in Australia