Tessa is a feminine given name of Italian origin. It is derived from the Italian word "tesoro," which means treasure or treasure chest. The name has also been used in other Romance languages such as Spanish and Portuguese, where it has a similar meaning.
The name Tessa first gained popularity in the United States during the late 19th century when many Italian immigrants arrived in America. However, it was not until the mid-20th century that the name became widely popular, particularly among parents who were looking for unique and exotic names for their daughters.
Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals with the name Tessa. One of the most famous is Tessa Jowell, a British politician who served as Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport from 2001 to 2007. Another notable figure is Tessa Thompson, an American actress known for her roles in films such as "Creed," "Avengers: Endgame," and "Westworld."
In literature, the name Tessa has been used by several authors, including Thomas Hardy in his novel "Tess of the d'Urbervilles" and Louisa May Alcott in her short story "An Old-Fashioned Girl." The name has also appeared in various other works of fiction throughout history.
Overall, the name Tessa is a beautiful and unique choice for a girl, with a rich history and meaning behind it. Its Italian origins give it an exotic and elegant sound, while its meaning as treasure or treasure chest adds to its appeal. Whether you're looking for a name that stands out from the crowd or one that has deep historical roots, Tessa is certainly worth considering.
The name Tessa experienced significant growth in popularity from the late 1960s onwards, with a notable spike in usage starting around 1964 (141 births) and peaking in 2007 (1753 births). However, it has since seen a steady decline, with only 960 births recorded in 2023. Overall, there have been 53887 births registered with the name Tessa between 1891 and 2023.