VANESSA
və-NESS-ə
A literary name coined by Jonathan Swift, later linked to the graceful, butterfly-like image of beauty and lightness.
Meaning
Vanessa was coined by Jonathan Swift as a poetic name for Esther Vanhomrigh, built from the first syllable of her surname, Van-, and a form thought to echo Esther. The excerpt also notes that Swift used it as a generic title for one of England's finest butterflies, which helped give the name its delicate, airy feel.
Origin
EnglishLiterary coinageLatin (influential root in the coinage)feminine
Fun fact
The name began as a private literary invention before becoming a widely used given name.
Confidence: sourced. Sources: History of Christian Names.