Vanessa
vuh-NESS-uh
Meaning:
Butterfly
Gender
Girl
Origin
Greek, English, Literary
Popularity Rank
#304 (girls)
#631 (overall)
#631 (overall)
Popularity Summary
Vanessa has consistently been a popular name, especially in the United States, where it peaked in the 1980s and 1990s. It remains a favorite among parents today.
Why Parents Choose Vanessa
Parents often choose the name Vanessa for its melodic sound and positive connotations, as well as its literary roots and timeless appeal.
History & Cultural Significance
The name Vanessa was created by the author Jonathan Swift in the early 18th century, derived from the first syllables of the name 'Esther Vanhomrigh', a woman with whom he had a close relationship. It gained popularity in the 20th century and has been used widely in various cultures.
The name Vanessa is often associated with beauty and grace, reflecting its meaning of 'butterfly', which symbolizes transformation and delicacy.
Notable People Named Vanessa
- Vanessa Williams
- Vanessa Paradis
- Vanessa Carlton
- Vanessa Redgrave
- Vanessa Kirby
Name Variations
Related Names
Similar Sounding Names
Names with Similar Feel
Sibling Name Ideas
Pop Culture References
- Vanessa from the animated series 'Phineas and Ferb'
- Vanessa in 'Vanessa and Her Sister' by Priya Parmar
- Vanessa in the film 'The Amazing Spider-Man'