Tessa

girlEnglishChristian

Tessa is a Christian girl name of English, from Teresa origin, meaning “Short form of Teresa”.

MeaningShort form of Teresa
GenderGirl
OriginEnglish, from Teresa
PronunciationTESS-uh
TraditionChristian, Modern & Classic
Used inUnited Kingdom, Netherlands, United States, Australia

Meaning and origin of Tessa

Tessa began as a pet form of Teresa (Theresa) and is now used as a name in its own right. Like Teresa, its ultimate origin is uncertain, with 'harvester' a commonly cited but unproven explanation. It grew popular in Britain and the Netherlands in the twentieth century and has a fresh, modern feel. Actress Tessa Thompson is a well-known contemporary bearer.

Is Tessa a Christian name?

Tessa has an indirect Catholic link through Saint Teresa of Ávila but is generally used as a secular name.

How popular is Tessa?

Moderately popular in English-speaking countries and the Netherlands.

Gifts with the name Tessa

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Spellings and variants of Tessa

Names similar to Tessa

More Christian girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Tessa mean?

Tessa means 'Short form of Teresa'. It is of English, from Teresa origin.

Is Tessa a Christian name?

Tessa has an indirect Catholic link through Saint Teresa of Ávila but is generally used as a secular name.

How do you pronounce Tessa?

Tessa is pronounced TESS-uh.

Is Tessa a boy or girl name?

Tessa is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.