CressidaΧρυσηΐς

/KRES-ih-duh/

GreekGirl

Cressida is a Greek girl's name pronounced /KRES-ih-duh/. A classic name derived from the word for gold, symbolizing lasting value and brilliance.

Meaning of Cressida

A classic name derived from the word for gold, symbolizing lasting value and brilliance.

Cressida is derived from the Greek name Chryseis, originating from the word 'chrysos' meaning gold. In Greek mythology, the name was borne by the daughter of Chryses, a priest of Apollo, and later became a central figure in medieval and Renaissance literature through the works of Boccaccio, Chaucer, and Shakespeare.

Origin
Greek
Pronunciation
/KRES-ih-duh/

Cultural background

While rare globally, the name maintains a sophisticated, upper-class image in the United Kingdom and is occasionally chosen by parents seeking a classic name with literary depth.

Variations & nicknames

  • Crissida
  • Cressie
  • Cressy
  • Chrysida
  • Chryseis

Famous people named Cressida

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

  • Cressida Bonas

    British actress, model, and socialite

    Film · 2010s-present

  • Cressida Cowell

    Author of the 'How to Train Your Dragon' book series

    Literature · 2000s-present

  • Cressida Dick

    Former Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police in London

    Politics · 2010s-2022

  • Cressida Campbell

    Renowned Australian woodblock printer and painter

    Art · 1980s-present

  • Cressida

    The tragic heroine of William Shakespeare's play 'Troilus and Cressida'

    Literature · 17th century

Frequently asked about Cressida

What does Cressida mean?
Cressida means 'gold' or 'golden', derived from the Greek word 'chrysos'.
How do you pronounce Cressida?
It is pronounced KREH-sih-dah, with the emphasis on the first syllable.
Is Cressida a boy or girl name?
Cressida is traditionally and almost exclusively used as a feminine (girl) name.
Is Cressida a common name?
No, it is considered a rare and distinctive name, though it is more recognized in the United Kingdom than in the United States.

Love Cressida? Get more names like it

We'll email you 5 fresh Greek names each week — free, no spam.

Compare Cressida with…

Side-by-side meaning, sound and popularity.

More Greek names

See all Greek names