Have you ever wondered about the meaning behind your name? Names can carry a lot of weight and significance, and understanding their meanings can provide insight into one’s personality and background. In this article, we’ll explore the meaning of the name Marisa, its origins, history, and significance.
What is the Origin of the Name Marisa?
Marisa is a feminine given name of Spanish and Italian origin. It is a combination of two names, Maria and Luisa. Maria is derived from the Hebrew name Miryam, which means “bitterness” or “rebelliousness.” Luisa, on the other hand, is derived from the Germanic name Ludwig, which means “famous warrior.”
Historical Significance of the Name Marisa
The name Marisa has been in use for several centuries and has been associated with various important figures throughout history. One notable individual with the name Marisa is the American actress Marisa Tomei. She is known for her roles in films such as My Cousin Vinny, The Wrestler, and Spider-Man: Homecoming.
Another prominent figure with the name Marisa is Marisa Berenson, an American actress and model who appeared in the films Cabaret and Barry Lyndon. Marisa Merz was an Italian artist and sculptor associated with the Arte Povera movement, while Marisa Paredes is a Spanish actress best known for her work with filmmaker Pedro Almodóvar.
Personality Traits Associated with the Name Marisa
Names are often believed to have an impact on one’s personality, and Marisa is no exception. People with this name are said to be confident, determined, and independent individuals. They are natural leaders who take charge and make things happen. Marisas are also known for their intelligence, creativity, and strong willpower.
At the same time, Marisas can be quite sensitive and emotional, and they value their relationships with others. They are caring and compassionate individuals who will go out of their way to help those in need. However, they can also be stubborn at times and may resist change.
Popularity of the Name Marisa
The popularity of the name Marisa has varied over time and across different regions. In the United States, the name reached its peak popularity in the 1970s and 1980s and has since declined in usage. According to the Social Security Administration, Marisa was the 652nd most popular name for baby girls born in the United States in 2020.
In Spain, on the other hand, the name is more common and ranks among the top 100 names for baby girls. It is also popular in Italy and other Spanish-speaking countries around the world.
Famous People Named Marisa
As mentioned earlier, there have been several notable individuals throughout history with the name Marisa. Here are a few more famous Marisas:
- Marisa Miller: American model and actress
- Marisa Monte: Brazilian singer and songwriter
- Marisa Ramirez: American actress
- Marisa Tomei: American actress
- Marisa Berenson: American actress and model
- Marisa Merz: Italian artist and sculptor
- Marisa Paredes: Spanish actress
Naming Your Child Marisa
If you’re considering naming your child Marisa, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, it’s important to choose a name that you love and that has personal significance to you. You may also want to consider the cultural and historical context of the name, as well as its meaning and any potential personality traits associated with it.
It’s also worth noting that the popularity of the name may vary depending on where you live and what cultural background you come from. If you’re looking for something more unique, you may want to consider a variation of the name or a different name altogether.
Variations of the Name Marisa
There are several variations of the name Marisa that you may want to consider:
- Marisela: Spanish name meaning “star of the sea”
- Marisol: Spanish name meaning “sun and sea”
- Mari: Shortened version of Marisa
- Maria: Original name from which Marisa is derived
- Luisa: Other half of the name Marisa
Conclusion
The name Marisa has a rich history and cultural significance, with roots in both Spanish and Italian traditions. It is associated with strong, confident, and compassionate individuals who value their relationships with others. Whether you’re considering naming your child Marisa or simply curious about the origins and meaning behind the name, we hope this article has provided some valuable insights.
FAQs
- Is Marisa a popular name?
- The popularity of the name Marisa varies depending on the region and cultural background. In the United States, it has declined in usage since its peak in the 1970s and 1980s, but it remains popular in other Spanish-speaking countries.
- What is the meaning of the name Marisa?
- Marisa is a combination of two names, Maria and Luisa. Maria means “bitterness” or “rebelliousness,” while Luisa means “famous warrior.” Together, the name Marisa can be interpreted to mean “rebellious warrior” or “famous rebel.”
- What are some famous people named Marisa?
- Some famous individuals with the name Marisa include American actress Marisa Tomei, Italian artist Marisa Merz, and Brazilian singer Marisa Monte.
- What personality traits are associated with the name Marisa?
- People with the name Marisa are said to be confident, determined, independent, and intelligent. They are natural leaders who value their relationships with others and are compassionate and caring individuals.
- What are some variations of the name Marisa?
- Variations of the name Marisa include Marisela, Marisol, Mari (shortened version), Maria (original name from which Marisa is derived), and Luisa (other half of the name Marisa).

We’re Emma Carole Paradis and Kimberly Carole, the owners and designers of Impeccable Nest, based in Bedford, New Hampshire. A mother-daughter team with a love of design. Originally from Manhattan Beach, California, now based in Bedford, New Hampshire, we bring a Southern California cool and New England tradition to our design. Not only do we work together…we also live together in a multi-generational home…and a home that they are known to design for others.