Anissa

Anissa is an English feminine name that likely arose as an elaborated form of Annis, itself a medieval English vernacular form of Agnes, which derives from the Greek name Hagnē, rooted in the word hagnos, meaning pure or chaste. The addition of the suffix gives the name a softer, more modern sound while preserving its classical heritage. Agnes was widely used throughout medieval Europe owing to the veneration of Saint Agnes of Rome, a third-century martyr. Related forms include Annis, Agnes, and Agnès.