Odessa: a female name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “odýssomai (ὀδύσσομαι) Odysséus (Ὀδυσσεύς),” meaning “to be wroth against, hate, full of anger, wrathful".It derives from the Greek word "odýssomai > Odysséus".
Parents seeking a meaningful feminine name often discover Odessa, drawn to its Greek heritage and beautiful significance: "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “odýssomai (ὀδύσσομαι) Odysséus (Ὀδυσσεύς),” meaning “to be wroth against, hate, full of anger, wrathful". 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 Odessa
Quick facts about Odessa
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 “odýssomai (ὀδύσσομαι) Odysséus (Ὀδυσσεύς),” meaning “to be wroth against, hate, full of anger, wrathful.” Odysseus, also known by the Roman name Ulysses, was the perhaps fictional Greek King of Ithaca and the hero of Homer’s epic poem the Odyssey. Odysseus was the husband of Penelope, father of Telemachus, and son of Laërtes and Anticlea. He is most famous for the ten eventful years he took to return home after the decade-long Trojan War and his renowned Trojan horse ploy to capture the city of Troy.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
odýssomai > Odysséus
How to Pronounce Odessa
Odessa is pronounced /oʊˈdɛs.ə/(Greek)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Od-essa
Say it like: "OD-ESSA"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
This name has found popularity across english, and italian speaking regions, demonstrating its cross-cultural appeal and adaptability.
englishitalian
Name Relationships
The masculine counterpart to Odessa is Odysseus, sharing the same Greek etymology and core meaning. Both names derive from the same linguistic root.
Odessa means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “odýssomai (ὀδύσσομαι) Odysséus (Ὀδυσσεύς),” meaning “to be wroth against, hate, full of anger, wrathful.” Odysseus, also known by the Roman name Ulysses, was the perhaps fictional Greek King of Ithaca and the hero of Homer’s epic poem the Odyssey. Odysseus was the husband of Penelope, father of Telemachus, and son of Laërtes and Anticlea. He is most famous for the ten eventful years he took to return home after the decade-long Trojan War and his renowned Trojan horse ploy to capture the city of Troy.". The name comes from odýssomai > Odysséus. In its original form, the name derives from odýssomai (ὀδύσσομαι) Odysséus (Ὀδυσσεύς). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Odessa for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “odýssomai (ὀδύσσομαι) Odysséus (Ὀδυσσεύς),” meaning “to be wroth against, hate, full of anger, wrathful.” Odysseus, also known by the Roman name Ulysses, was the perhaps fictional Greek King of Ithaca and the hero of Homer’s epic poem the Odyssey. Odysseus was the husband of Penelope, father of Telemachus, and son of Laërtes and Anticlea. He is most famous for the ten eventful years he took to return home after the decade-long Trojan War and his renowned Trojan horse ploy to capture the city of Troy." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Odessa's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like GREEK MYTHOLOGY (MINOR FIGURES) / LATIN (ROMAN MYTHOLOGY), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Odessa?
Odessa is a greek name. The name traces back to odýssomai > Odysséus. The original form odýssomai (ὀδύσσομαι) Odysséus (Ὀδυσσεύς) shows the name's roots in its native language. From its greek roots, Odessa spread to become common in english, italian. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “odýssomai (ὀδύσσομαι) Odysséus (Ὀδυσσεύς),” meaning “to be wroth against, hate, full of anger, wrathful.” Odysseus, also known by the Roman name Ulysses, was the perhaps fictional Greek King of Ithaca and the hero of Homer’s epic poem the Odyssey. Odysseus was the husband of Penelope, father of Telemachus, and son of Laërtes and Anticlea. He is most famous for the ten eventful years he took to return home after the decade-long Trojan War and his renowned Trojan horse ploy to capture the city of Troy." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Odessa a boy or girl name?
Odessa 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, Odessa has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “odýssomai (ὀδύσσομαι) Odysséus (Ὀδυσσεύς),” meaning “to be wroth against, hate, full of anger, wrathful.” Odysseus, also known by the Roman name Ulysses, was the perhaps fictional Greek King of Ithaca and the hero of Homer’s epic poem the Odyssey. Odysseus was the husband of Penelope, father of Telemachus, and son of Laërtes and Anticlea. He is most famous for the ten eventful years he took to return home after the decade-long Trojan War and his renowned Trojan horse ploy to capture the city of Troy." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Odessa?
Odessa is pronounced "/oʊˈdɛs.ə/". This pronunciation follows el language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Odessa is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, italian, 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 Odessa can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root odýssomai > Odysséus influences how Odessa sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Odessa?
Odessa is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Odessa offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Odessa'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 “odýssomai (ὀδύσσομαι) Odysséus (Ὀδυσσεύς),” meaning “to be wroth against, hate, full of anger, wrathful.” Odysseus, also known by the Roman name Ulysses, was the perhaps fictional Greek King of Ithaca and the hero of Homer’s epic poem the Odyssey. Odysseus was the husband of Penelope, father of Telemachus, and son of Laërtes and Anticlea. He is most famous for the ten eventful years he took to return home after the decade-long Trojan War and his renowned Trojan horse ploy to capture the city of Troy." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Odessa holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
What are variations of the name Odessa?
Odessa is related to Odysseus (feminine). The feminine version Odysseus carries the same essential meaning, adapted to fit naming conventions for girls. In greek tradition, these variations allow the core name to work across different contexts while maintaining its character. All variations preserve the meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “odýssomai (ὀδύσσομαι) Odysséus (Ὀδυσσεύς),” meaning “to be wroth against, hate, full of anger, wrathful.” Odysseus, also known by the Roman name Ulysses, was the perhaps fictional Greek King of Ithaca and the hero of Homer’s epic poem the Odyssey. Odysseus was the husband of Penelope, father of Telemachus, and son of Laërtes and Anticlea. He is most famous for the ten eventful years he took to return home after the decade-long Trojan War and his renowned Trojan horse ploy to capture the city of Troy.", so choosing between them comes down to sound preference and cultural fit rather than different meanings. Parents drawn to Odessa might also consider these related forms, especially if they want options for siblings or prefer a more traditional or modern feel. In english and italian, Odessa may be more or less common than its variations, depending on local naming customs.
Where is the name Odessa commonly used?
Odessa is common in english and italian naming traditions. Though greek in origin, Odessa found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “odýssomai (ὀδύσσομαι) Odysséus (Ὀδυσσεύς),” meaning “to be wroth against, hate, full of anger, wrathful.” Odysseus, also known by the Roman name Ulysses, was the perhaps fictional Greek King of Ithaca and the hero of Homer’s epic poem the Odyssey. Odysseus was the husband of Penelope, father of Telemachus, and son of Laërtes and Anticlea. He is most famous for the ten eventful years he took to return home after the decade-long Trojan War and his renowned Trojan horse ploy to capture the city of Troy." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Odessa into their naming traditions. A child named Odessa 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, Odessa is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Odessa?
Odessa carries associations with GREEK MYTHOLOGY (MINOR FIGURES) / LATIN (ROMAN MYTHOLOGY). These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “odýssomai (ὀδύσσομαι) Odysséus (Ὀδυσσεύς),” meaning “to be wroth against, hate, full of anger, wrathful.” Odysseus, also known by the Roman name Ulysses, was the perhaps fictional Greek King of Ithaca and the hero of Homer’s epic poem the Odyssey. Odysseus was the husband of Penelope, father of Telemachus, and son of Laërtes and Anticlea. He is most famous for the ten eventful years he took to return home after the decade-long Trojan War and his renowned Trojan horse ploy to capture the city of Troy." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In greek culture, where Odessa originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Odessa sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Odessa often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In english communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.