Sea nymph or daughter of Nereus
The name was likely created or popularized by William Shakespeare for a character in 'The Merchant of Venice'. It is derived from the Greek 'Nereis', referring to the sea nymphs of mythology who were the daughters of the sea god Nereus.
Less common today
Nerissa isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #2,810 in 1990.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
The witty confidante and lady-in-waiting to Portia · The Merchant of Venice
British aristocrat and first cousin of Queen Elizabeth II
American television news anchor and journalist
