Desired or star of the sea
Originally a diminutive of names like Desirée or Mary (via the Irish Desirée-influenced variant), it has also been used as a nickname for Modesta. In the American South during the early 20th century, it frequently stood alone as a given name. It carries the weight of its root meanings, ranging from 'longed for' to 'modest'.
About 7 girls were named Dessie in 2025.
Irish professional footballer
Gaelic football manager and former player
Champion Irish racehorse trainer and jockey
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
