Larissa: a female name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Lárisa (Λάρισα) Lā́rissa (Λᾱ́ρισσα),” meaning “citadel".It derives from the Greek word "Lárisa / Lā́rissa".
Parents seeking a meaningful feminine name often discover Larissa, drawn to its Greek heritage and beautiful significance: "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Lárisa (Λάρισα) Lā́rissa (Λᾱ́ρισσα),” meaning “citadel". This name offers a perfect blend of cultural depth and personal meaning, making it a timeless choice for families around the world.
Quick Facts About Larissa
Quick facts about Larissa
Origin
Greek
Gender
Girl name
Popularity
Moderately popular
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Lárisa (Λάρισα) Lā́rissa (Λᾱ́ρισσα),” meaning “citadel.” In Greek mythology, Larissa was a local nymph from Thessaly. Pausanias described her as the daughter of Pelasgus. However, Hellanicus states that the sons of Poseidon and Larissa were Achaios, Phthios, and Pelasgus. Larissa also is the capital and biggest city of the Thessaly region of Greece and the capital of the Larissa regional unit. Saint Larisa (Beride) was one of twenty-six martyrs who was killed by the Goths around the year 375 under Jungerich, a persecutor of Christians. Ancient synaxaria of the Gothic Church recount the martyrdom of twenty-six Christians in the time of the emperors Valentinian, Valens, and Gratian. This name, in some cases, is associated with Ilaria.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
Lárisa / Lā́rissa
How to Pronounce Larissa
Larissa is pronounced /ləˈrɪsə/
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Lar-issa
Say it like: "LOOHREEHSOOH"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Larissa enjoys international appeal, used in 8 different linguistic and cultural contexts including english, italian, norwegian, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.
Larissa means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Lárisa (Λάρισα) Lā́rissa (Λᾱ́ρισσα),” meaning “citadel.” In Greek mythology, Larissa was a local nymph from Thessaly. Pausanias described her as the daughter of Pelasgus. However, Hellanicus states that the sons of Poseidon and Larissa were Achaios, Phthios, and Pelasgus. Larissa also is the capital and biggest city of the Thessaly region of Greece and the capital of the Larissa regional unit. Saint Larisa (Beride) was one of twenty-six martyrs who was killed by the Goths around the year 375 under Jungerich, a persecutor of Christians. Ancient synaxaria of the Gothic Church recount the martyrdom of twenty-six Christians in the time of the emperors Valentinian, Valens, and Gratian. This name, in some cases, is associated with Ilaria.". The name comes from Lárisa / Lā́rissa. In its original form, the name derives from Lárisa (Λάρισα) Lā́rissa (Λᾱ́ρισσα). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Larissa for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Lárisa (Λάρισα) Lā́rissa (Λᾱ́ρισσα),” meaning “citadel.” In Greek mythology, Larissa was a local nymph from Thessaly. Pausanias described her as the daughter of Pelasgus. However, Hellanicus states that the sons of Poseidon and Larissa were Achaios, Phthios, and Pelasgus. Larissa also is the capital and biggest city of the Thessaly region of Greece and the capital of the Larissa regional unit. Saint Larisa (Beride) was one of twenty-six martyrs who was killed by the Goths around the year 375 under Jungerich, a persecutor of Christians. Ancient synaxaria of the Gothic Church recount the martyrdom of twenty-six Christians in the time of the emperors Valentinian, Valens, and Gratian. This name, in some cases, is associated with Ilaria." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Larissa's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Larissa?
Larissa is a greek name. The name traces back to Lárisa / Lā́rissa. The original form Lárisa (Λάρισα) Lā́rissa (Λᾱ́ρισσα) shows the name's roots in its native language. From its greek roots, Larissa spread to become common in english, italian, norwegian, swedish and other cultures. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Lárisa (Λάρισα) Lā́rissa (Λᾱ́ρισσα),” meaning “citadel.” In Greek mythology, Larissa was a local nymph from Thessaly. Pausanias described her as the daughter of Pelasgus. However, Hellanicus states that the sons of Poseidon and Larissa were Achaios, Phthios, and Pelasgus. Larissa also is the capital and biggest city of the Thessaly region of Greece and the capital of the Larissa regional unit. Saint Larisa (Beride) was one of twenty-six martyrs who was killed by the Goths around the year 375 under Jungerich, a persecutor of Christians. Ancient synaxaria of the Gothic Church recount the martyrdom of twenty-six Christians in the time of the emperors Valentinian, Valens, and Gratian. This name, in some cases, is associated with Ilaria." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Larissa a boy or girl name?
Larissa is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In greek tradition, Larissa has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Lárisa (Λάρισα) Lā́rissa (Λᾱ́ρισσα),” meaning “citadel.” In Greek mythology, Larissa was a local nymph from Thessaly. Pausanias described her as the daughter of Pelasgus. However, Hellanicus states that the sons of Poseidon and Larissa were Achaios, Phthios, and Pelasgus. Larissa also is the capital and biggest city of the Thessaly region of Greece and the capital of the Larissa regional unit. Saint Larisa (Beride) was one of twenty-six martyrs who was killed by the Goths around the year 375 under Jungerich, a persecutor of Christians. Ancient synaxaria of the Gothic Church recount the martyrdom of twenty-six Christians in the time of the emperors Valentinian, Valens, and Gratian. This name, in some cases, is associated with Ilaria." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Larissa?
Larissa is pronounced "/ləˈrɪsə/". This pronunciation follows gr language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Larissa is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, italian, norwegian, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Larissa can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root Lárisa / Lā́rissa influences how Larissa sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Larissa?
Larissa is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Larissa offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Larissa's popularity may vary between greek communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Lárisa (Λάρισα) Lā́rissa (Λᾱ́ρισσα),” meaning “citadel.” In Greek mythology, Larissa was a local nymph from Thessaly. Pausanias described her as the daughter of Pelasgus. However, Hellanicus states that the sons of Poseidon and Larissa were Achaios, Phthios, and Pelasgus. Larissa also is the capital and biggest city of the Thessaly region of Greece and the capital of the Larissa regional unit. Saint Larisa (Beride) was one of twenty-six martyrs who was killed by the Goths around the year 375 under Jungerich, a persecutor of Christians. Ancient synaxaria of the Gothic Church recount the martyrdom of twenty-six Christians in the time of the emperors Valentinian, Valens, and Gratian. This name, in some cases, is associated with Ilaria." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Larissa holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Larissa commonly used?
Larissa spans multiple cultures, including english, italian, norwegian, and 5 other traditions. Though greek in origin, Larissa found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Larissa, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Lárisa (Λάρισα) Lā́rissa (Λᾱ́ρισσα),” meaning “citadel.” In Greek mythology, Larissa was a local nymph from Thessaly. Pausanias described her as the daughter of Pelasgus. However, Hellanicus states that the sons of Poseidon and Larissa were Achaios, Phthios, and Pelasgus. Larissa also is the capital and biggest city of the Thessaly region of Greece and the capital of the Larissa regional unit. Saint Larisa (Beride) was one of twenty-six martyrs who was killed by the Goths around the year 375 under Jungerich, a persecutor of Christians. Ancient synaxaria of the Gothic Church recount the martyrdom of twenty-six Christians in the time of the emperors Valentinian, Valens, and Gratian. This name, in some cases, is associated with Ilaria." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Larissa into their naming traditions. A child named Larissa will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Larissa is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.