To touch or stroke lovingly
A modern elaboration of the English word caress, which is derived from the French 'caresse' and the Italian 'carezza'. It ultimately traces back to the Latin 'carus', meaning dear or beloved. It emerged as a rhythmic feminine name choice in the mid-20th century.
Less common today
Caressa isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #2,121 in 1991.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
Miss America 2010
