Find out how popular the first name Contessa has been for the last 50 years (from 1974 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Contessa by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Contessa is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 12 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Contessa.

The history of the first name Contessa

The name Contessa originates from the Italian language and culture. It is derived from the Italian word "contessa," which means "countess." This title was used to refer to a noble woman who held the rank of a count or earl in the feudal system of medieval Europe.

The earliest known use of the name Contessa can be traced back to the 13th century, when it was used to refer to the wives of Italian noblemen. During this time, it was common for Italian noble families to use titles as part of their names, and Contessa became a popular choice for daughters born into these families.

One of the most famous historical figures with the name Contessa was Contessa Beatrice d'Este (1191-1245), who was the Countess of Ferrara and Modena in northern Italy. She was known for her patronage of the arts and her support of the Franciscan order.

Another notable Contessa was Contessa Maria Vittoria Delfini (1556-1634), an Italian noblewoman and patron of the arts who was a prominent figure in the intellectual circles of Renaissance Rome.

In the 18th century, the name Contessa was popularized by Contessa Maria Antonia Walpurgis of Bavaria (1724-1780), an influential composer and patron of the arts who was a member of the Bavarian royal family.

Contessa Lilian Venetia Stanley (1833-1923), an English aristocrat and philanthropist, was also a prominent figure in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. She was known for her work in promoting education and social welfare.

One of the most famous Contessas of the 20th century was Contessa Margherita Sarfatti (1880-1961), an Italian art critic and writer who was a close friend and confidante of the Italian dictator Benito Mussolini.

These are just a few examples of the many notable individuals throughout history who have borne the name Contessa, reflecting its long-standing association with nobility and cultural prominence, particularly in Italy.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Contessa was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Contessa, please contact us.

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