Ilissa is a unique and beautiful name of Greek origin. It is derived from the Greek word "Hilissos," which means "lily." The lily is a flower that is often associated with purity, beauty, and grace. Therefore, the name Ilissa carries similar connotations.
In Greek mythology, Hera, the queen of the gods, was known to wear a crown of lilies. This may have contributed to the association of the name Ilissa with femininity, elegance, and regalness. However, there is no specific figure in Greek mythology named Ilissa, so its history as a given name is not well-documented.
Despite this, Ilissa has been used as a given name for centuries, particularly in Greece and other parts of the Mediterranean region. It is not a very common name, which makes it all the more special for those who bear it. In recent years, Ilissa has gained some popularity outside of its traditional regions, perhaps due to its unique sound and beautiful meaning.
In conclusion, Ilissa is a charming and distinctive name with deep roots in Greek culture and mythology. Its meaning, "lily," lends it an air of sophistication and grace, making it an excellent choice for parents looking for a unique and meaningful name for their child.
The name Ilissa has seen varying popularity over the years in the United States, with a total of 249 babies given this name since 1967. The peak in popularity occurred in 1986, when 20 newborns were named Ilissa. However, there were no recorded births with this name in several years, including 1973, 1975, 1976, and 1977. Despite these fluctuations, Ilissa remains a unique and distinctive name choice for parents looking to give their child an uncommon moniker.