Melissa is a highly popular girls' name in England & Wales, ranking #47 in 1997 with 1,180 recorded births. This places Melissa in the top 1% of ranked UK girls' names for the year. Its actual usage is classified as Popular. The name reached its all-time peak in 1996 with 1,282 births ranking #46. In 1997, approximately 1 in every 248 girls born was named Melissa. FALLING Recent data shows the name is currently falling.
Melissa is a bright classic meaning 'bee'. It feels gentle, familiar, and quietly lively.
The name was used in Greek mythology and later spread through European naming traditions. Its major modern popularity helped make it feel very familiar, but the ancient root remains appealing and clear.