Vanessa is a feminine given name, originally invented by the Anglo-Irish writer Jonathan Swift in 1726.
The name Vanessa is derived from the first syllables of the name "Esther Vanhomrigh", Swift's close friend.
In Greek mythology, Vanessa is associated with the goddess of love and beauty.
The name Vanessa also refers to:
1. A genus of butterflies in the family Nymphalidae
2. A popular given name in English-speaking countries
3. A character in various literary works and films