Alyssa

How to say it

əˈlɪs.ə

What it means

From the flower alyssum, whose Greek name means 'without madness,' and linked to Alice and Adelaide.

Alyssa usually points to the alyssum, a small flower whose Greek name a-lyssa means 'without frenzy,' since it was once thought to calm rage. It also reads as an elaboration of Alice and Adelaide. A big hit from the 1980s on, friendly and pretty, with Aly and Lissa as shorts. Said uh-LISS-uh.

How to spell Alyssa

The standard spelling is Alyssa. Common variants include Alissa, Alyssia, Alisa, but Alyssa is the most widely used form.

Heads-up notes

• Nickname

  Aly, Lissa.

• Spelling

  Also Alissa or Alisa.

Who's worn it

• Alyssa Milano American actress known for Charmed and Who's the Boss

Spelling variants

• Alissa
• Alyssia
• Alisa

Names with the same feeling

• Alice Noble
• Alicia Noble
• Melissa Bee
• Elise God is my oath
• Alana Beautiful, harmony

See Alyssa from another angle

Common questions

What does the name Alyssa mean?

From the flower alyssum, whose Greek name means 'without madness,' and linked to Alice and Adelaide.

What does Alyssa mean in Greek?

In Greek, Alyssa means "Alyssum flower; rational." Alyssa usually points to the alyssum, a small flower whose Greek name a-lyssa means 'without frenzy,' since it was once thought to calm rage. It also reads as an elaboration of Alice and Adelaide. A big hit from the 1980s on, friendly and pretty, with Aly and Lissa as shorts. Said uh-LISS-uh.

How do you pronounce Alyssa?

Alyssa is pronounced əˈlɪs.ə. Say it as a-LYS-sa, with the stress on the "lys" syllable.

How do you spell Alyssa?

The standard spelling is Alyssa. Common spelling variants include Alissa, Alyssia, Alisa.

Is Alyssa a boy or girl name?

Alyssa is traditionally a feminine name.

How popular is the name Alyssa?

Alyssa ranked #453 in the U.S. in 2025, according to Social Security Administration data.