Caress as a Baby Name. Meaning and Origin of Caress

What is the meaning of the name Caress ?

The baby name Caress is a Female name , 2 syllables long and is pronounced /kəˈrɛs/ (kuh-RESS).

Caress is English in Origin.

Caress is an English word name with Romance roots. It comes via French caresse and the verb caresser, themselves from Italian carezza “caress,” ultimately tracing to Latin carus, meaning “dear, beloved.” In English the noun and verb appear by the 17th century, defining a tender touch or affectionate gesture; by extension, the name conveys “to cherish” and “fondness.”

As a given name, Caress is a modern, rare choice in English-speaking countries, seen sporadically since the late 20th century alongside virtue and sentiment names. It skews feminine but can be used unisex. Spelling variants include Caresse (familiar from publisher Caresse Crosby), Caressa, Carressa, and Karesse; related forms sometimes seen are Carese and Caressia. Do not confuse it with Welsh Carys or Greek Charis, which have different roots. The soft sound and evocative meaning give it a romantic, whispery style.