Tessa
“The fuller form of Tess, derived from Teresa (Greek Therasia). Tessa gained popularity as both a standalone name and diminutive through literature and film, offering more substance than Tess while remaining warm and approachable. The name feels both classic and youthful, with a timeless European quality.”
Tessa is a girl's name of Greek origin. The fuller form of Tess, derived from Teresa (Greek Therasia). Tessa gained popularity as both a standalone name and diminutive through literature and film, offering more substance than Tess while remaining warm and approachable. The name feels both classic and youthful, with a timeless European quality.
A top name choice across English-speaking countries and Northern Europe; balanced between classic and contemporary.
The name Tessa has roots in the Greek language tradition. It derives from elements meaning “The fuller form of Tess, derived from Teresa (Greek Therasia)”.
Cultural context: A top name choice across English-speaking countries and Northern Europe; balanced between classic and contemporary.
As a girl's name, Tessa carries the character of its Greek heritage while remaining a distinctive and uncommon choice for parents seeking something unique.
Tessa Virtue
SportsCanadianOlympic gold medalist ice dancer (2018, 2022)
Canadian ice dancer who won Olympic gold medals in 2018 and 2022, becoming one of Canada's most decorated Winter Olympians and revolutionizing the ice dance discipline.
1989 – present
Tessa Thompson
EntertainmentAmericanActress in Westworld, Thor: Ragnarok, Creed
American actress known for her roles in films like 'Westworld,' 'Thor: Ragnarok,' 'Men in Black: International,' and 'Creed,' establishing herself as a versatile performer across genres.
1986 – present
Tessa Sanderson
SportsBritishFirst British woman to win Olympic gold in track and field (1984)
British Olympic sprinter and long jumper who won gold in the 100m at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, becoming the first British woman to win an Olympic gold medal in track and field.
1956 – present
Tessa Jowell
PoliticsBritishUK Culture Secretary, orchestrated 2012 London Olympics bid
British Labour politician and Member of Parliament who served as Culture Secretary and played a key role in securing the 2012 London Olympics for Britain.
1947 – 2023
What does the name Tessa mean?
Tessa means "The fuller form of Tess, derived from Teresa (Greek Therasia). Tessa gained popularity as both a standalone name and diminutive through literature and film, offering more substance than Tess while remaining warm and approachable. The name feels both classic and youthful, with a timeless European quality.", and is of Greek origin.
Is Tessa a girl name?
Tessa is primarily used as a girl's name.
What is the origin of the name Tessa?
Tessa is of Greek origin. A top name choice across English-speaking countries and Northern Europe; balanced between classic and contemporary.