Elissa

Elissa is a feminine given name used in various cultures. In classical Latin literature, Elissa is a poetic name for Dido, the legendary queen of Carthage. The epithet ties the name to the Phoenician homeland of Tyre and to the founding of Carthage, and it appears in retellings of the Dido story within epic and lyric traditions.

In contemporary use, Elissa functions as an independent given name. It is found in English- and French-speaking regions and in some Arabic-speaking communities, among others. The name has several near variants and spellings, such as Ellissa or Elisa/ Elise in some contexts, though etymology and usage vary by language. It is sometimes grouped with related names like Elisa, Elise, or Alyssa, but these are distinct in origin and meaning.

As a personal name, Elissa may be chosen for its historical literary associations, its phonetic qualities, or simply personal preference. Notable bearers exist across fields such as arts, sports, and public life, reflecting its continued use in modern naming practices. The name’s enduring presence in literature and real life contributes to its recognition as a versatile, culturally diverse given name.