Tessa

Tessa is a feminine given name that is commonly used as a diminutive of Theresa or Teresa, though it is also given as a standalone name. It has appeared in English-speaking countries and in various European communities, often chosen for its concise, upbeat sound.

Origin and usage details are shared with Theresa/Teresa, a name with uncertain roots. Teresa is widely used across Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, and other Romance-language contexts, and the form Tessa began to be used independently in English-speaking regions during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The name has remained a familiar option in many countries, sometimes appearing alongside related forms such as Tess or Tessie.

In contemporary usage, Tessa is seen as a classic but modern-sounding choice. It is appreciated for its clarity and ease of pronunciation, and it has appeared across various cultural domains, including literature, film, and sports. The name also lends itself to familiar nicknames such as Tess or Tessie.

Notable real people named Tessa include Tessa Thompson, an American actress; Tessa Virtue, a Canadian ice dancer; and Tessa Sanderson, a British javelin thrower. In fiction, Tessa Gray is the central character in Cassandra Clare’s The Infernal Devices trilogy, where she plays a key role in a blend of romance and fantasy.

See also: Tess, Tessie; related given names include Teresa/Theresa and Therese. The name Tessa remains in use as both a standalone given name and a familiar shortening of longer forms.