Clarissa
Clarissa (noun) means a nun of the Poor Clares order (a less common synonym for "Poor Clare"). Example: “She entered the convent and became a Clarissa.”
How to use Clarissa
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishMostly familiar today as a given name; as a common noun it can also mean a nun of the Poor Clares.
Word forms
Clarissas plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She entered the convent and became a _____.
Etymology
From Medieval Latin Clarissa, related to Latin clarus, "clear, bright" — also a well-known given name, popularised by Samuel Richardson's 1748 novel Clarissa.
Rhymes for Clarissa
See all rhymes for Clarissa →Frequently asked questions
What does “Clarissa” mean?
The word “Clarissa” means a nun of the Poor Clares order (a less common synonym for "Poor Clare"). In plain terms, mostly familiar today as a given name; as a common noun it can also mean a nun of the Poor Clares.
How do you pronounce “Clarissa”?
“Clarissa” is pronounced kluh-RIH-suh (/kləˈɹɪsə/ in IPA).
How do you use “Clarissa” in a sentence?
Here is “Clarissa” used in a sentence: “She entered the convent and became a Clarissa.”
What part of speech is “Clarissa”?
“Clarissa” is a noun.
Where does the word “Clarissa” come from?
The word “Clarissa” dates back to around 1748 and comes from Medieval Latin. From Medieval Latin Clarissa, related to Latin clarus, "clear, bright" — also a well-known given name, popularised by Samuel Richardson's 1748 novel Clarissa.