Anyssa is a modern name, first appearing in the mid 20th century. The name was brought to public attention by the American child actress Anissa Jones (1959-1976), who played Buffy on the television show "Family Affair." Her grandparents were Lebanese, and her middle name comes from the Arabic Anisa (see also). In modern usage, it is probably thought of as an alteration of Alyssa or Anna + the ending -issa.See Also: Anisa