Karissa

Karissa is a feminine given name used primarily in English-speaking countries. It is commonly treated as a variant of the names Carissa or Charissa, though its exact origin is not firmly established and it likely arose as part of modern naming trends that blend familiar sounds.

Etymology and meaning: Some sources connect Karissa and related forms to Charis, the Greek word for grace, while others view it as a contemporary formation combining preferred name elements. As a result, the meaning is often interpreted as "grace" or simply as a pleasant phonetic construction.

Usage and popularity: Karissa has been among the many feminine names that gained modest usage in the late 20th century and remains relatively uncommon compared with more traditional names. It is most frequently found in the United States and other English-speaking regions.

Variants: Common spellings include Karissa, Carissa, Charissa, and Charise, with other variants such as Karisa and Kariss used in some communities.

In summary, Karissa is a modern, feminine given name with uncertain but likely connections to older names meaning grace, and it continues to be used primarily in English-speaking contexts.