Likely a short form of Festus, from Latin 'festivus' meaning festive or joyful.
Fess is likely a short form of Festus, from Latin festivus meaning festive or joyful. That origin gives the name a cheerful semantic core, even though the shortened form itself is brisk and to the point.
It has the feel of a nickname that became a name in its own right. As a given name, Fess is compact enough to feel almost nickname-like, but it also has the directness of a word name. It is rare, memorable, and a little old-fashioned in a way that makes it stand out today.
Names this brief often carry surprising personality because they rely on sound and shape more than length. Fess feels lively, plainspoken, and quietly upbeat.