Ulyssa

Girl Name
Origin:greek
Pronunciation:/juˈlɪs.ə/

Ulyssa: 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".

Ulyssa has maintained its appeal as a feminine name in modern times while preserving its Greek roots. Today, parents are drawn to its meaningful essence of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “odýssomai (ὀδύσσομαι) Odysséus (Ὀδυσσεύς),” meaning “to be wroth against, hate, full of anger, wrathful" and its cultural richness. This name bridges traditional heritage with contemporary naming trends.

Quick Facts About Ulyssa

Quick facts about Ulyssa
OriginGreek
GenderGirl name
PopularityModerately 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 Ulyssa

Ulyssa is pronounced /juˈlɪs.ə/(Greek)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Uly-ssa
  2. Say it like: "ULY-SSA"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Ulyssa is predominantly used in english speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.

english
Name Relationships

The masculine counterpart to Ulyssa is Ulysses, sharing the same Greek etymology and core meaning. Both names derive from the same linguistic root.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ulyssa
What does the name Ulyssa mean?
Ulyssa 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 Ulyssa 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, Ulyssa'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 Ulyssa?
Ulyssa 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. The name remains closely tied to english naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. 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 Ulyssa a boy or girl name?
Ulyssa 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, Ulyssa 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 Ulyssa?
Ulyssa is pronounced "/juˈlɪs.ə/". This pronunciation follows el language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Ulyssa is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Ulyssa can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root odýssomai > Odysséus influences how Ulyssa sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Ulyssa?
Ulyssa is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Ulyssa offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Ulyssa'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, Ulyssa holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
What are variations of the name Ulyssa?
Ulyssa is related to Ulysses (feminine). The feminine version Ulysses 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 Ulyssa might also consider these related forms, especially if they want options for siblings or prefer a more traditional or modern feel. In english, Ulyssa may be more or less common than its variations, depending on local naming customs.
Where is the name Ulyssa commonly used?
Ulyssa is used primarily in english naming traditions. Though greek in origin, Ulyssa 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 Ulyssa into their naming traditions. A child named Ulyssa 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, Ulyssa is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Ulyssa?
Ulyssa 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 Ulyssa 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 Ulyssa sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Ulyssa 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.

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