Cherice

Cherice is a feminine given name of English origin, considered a variant of Charisse. Charisse is derived from a French surname of uncertain meaning, later popularized as a given name in honor of the American actress and dancer Cyd Charisse (1921–2008). Cherice, along with variants like Cherise, Sharise, and Sherisse, emerged as modern coinages in the 20th century, particularly in the United States. These names often share a soft, melodic quality and reflect a trend of creating unique names by altering spelling or sound.

Etymology

The root of Cherice is the French surname Charisse, whose meaning is unknown. The name gained visibility through Cyd Charisse, born Tula Ellice Finklea, a celebrated dancer known for roles in MGM musicals such as Singin' in the Rain and The Band Wagon. Her stage surname became a fashionable first name, leading to variations like Cherice. The similarity to "cherish" also evokes positive associations with care and affection, though this is not an etymological connection.

Usage and Popularity

Cherice has been used primarily in English-speaking countries, especially the United States, since the mid-20th century. It remains a relatively uncommon name, often chosen for its feminine sound and literary resonance. The name aligns with the broader category of -ice endings (e.g., Clarice, Janice) that were widely used during the early to mid-1900s. As a variant spelling, Cherice offers a distinctive alternative to the more common Cherise.

Related Names

Cherice's connection to Charisse links it to the broader family of names derived from French sources. Other variants include Chérise (a French form), and modern inventions like Sharisse and Sherisse, which follow similar phonetic patterns. These names are not historically derived but have been created in contemporary naming practices.

• Meaning: Variant of Charisse (unknown meaning, possibly influenced by "cherish")
• Origin: English
• Type: Feminine given name
• Usage Regions: English-speaking countries, especially the United States