Unknown; possibly a variant of Vanessa or a Hebrew derivative.
Manessa is a rare name with an uncertain etymology. It is often considered a creative variation of Vanessa, which was invented by Jonathan Swift, or potentially a feminine form related to the Hebrew name Manasseh, meaning 'causing to forget.' In modern usage, it serves as a unique alternative to more common 'essa' names.
Less common today
Manessa isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #9,029 in 2016.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
