Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2025 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company

      Meaning of the first name
      Vanesa

      Origin 
      English, Derived from Spanish

      Meaning 
      Butterfly or of the Sea

      Variations 
      Devanesan, Ganesa, Janesa

      *Some content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, in combination with data sourced from Ancestry records and provided by BabyNames.com.
      The name Vanesa, often seen as a variant of Vanessa, is believed to have originated from the English language, with its roots tracing back to Spanish. The name carries the meanings butterfly or of the sea, both of which evoke imagery of grace and fluidity. This dual significance conveys a sense of beauty and connection to nature, making it a popular choice for parents seeking a name with both elegance and depth.

      The name Vanessa was first popularized in the early 18th century by the English poet Jonathan Swift. He created the name as a combination of the first syllables of his friend Esther Vanhomrigh's name. Over the years, Vanessa evolved and saw various adaptations, including Vanesa. While its use has fluctuated through the decades, it gained significant traction in the 20th century and has since become a widely accepted feminine name in many cultures.

      Today, the name Vanesa enjoys a favorable standing in various societies around the world. It maintains a contemporary appeal, often associated with qualities such as creativity and individuality. Commonly found in English-speaking countries, Vanesa, alongside its variants, continues to be chosen by parents globally, reflecting both personal preference and cultural influences. Its enduring popularity underscores its timeless charm and resonant meanings.
      Based on our records...
      This is the most common surname, spouse name and child name associated with Vanesa.
      Hernandez

      is the most common surname for Vanesa.

      Alexander

      is the most common spouse name for Vanesa.

      Angelo

      is the most common child name for Vanesa.

      Start your curiosity engines.

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Free Trial
      Order Ancestry
      did_you_know_bar
      Based on our records...
      Did you know?
      1984 is when there were the most people born with the first name Vanesa.

      We'll guide you through the process of building and growing your tree

      Explore the origins of another name.