Alaric

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Alaric

Gender Boy
Origin Celtic
Letters 6
Syllables 3
Pronunciation AH-luh-rik

Alaric, which has 6 letters and 3 syllables, is a male name of Celtic origin.

Meaning of Alaric

He who rules

Alaric is an old Germanic name derived from the elements 'adal', meaning 'noble', and 'ric', meaning 'power'. It is often translated to mean 'ruler of all'.

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(3/5 from 46 votes)
Meaning He who rules
Origin Celtic
Gender Boy
Popularity (US) #917 in 2022 Declining Fast
Rarity (US) Rare (Top 1000)
Era Modern (peaked 2020)

Background & History of The Name Alaric

The name 'Alaric' is of Gothic origin and has its roots in ancient Germanic language. It is derived from the elements 'ala,' meaning "all," and 'rica,' meaning "ruler" or "king." This combination gives the name the overall meaning of "ruler of all" or "king of all." Alaric gained popularity in the Middle Ages, especially in Germanic-speaking countries and among the Goths, Visigoths, and Ostrogoths. One of the most notable figures with this name is Alaric I, who was the King of the Visigoths in the 5th century. He led his people in several military campaigns and is famously remembered for sacking Rome in 410 AD, a monumental event marking the decline of the Western Roman Empire.

Throughout history, the name Alaric has held a sense of power, leadership, and nobility. Its Gothic origins contribute to its unique and ancient appeal. Although not as commonly used today, Alaric continues to be cherished by those seeking a strong and unconventional name for their child. The impact of the name spreads beyond the historical context, as it has been adopted in various forms of popular culture. Alaric Saltzman, a character from the TV series "The Vampire Diaries," has helped revive interest in the name by introducing it to newer generations.

Alaric's enduring charm is also reflected in the literary world. Several authors have chosen the name for characters in their works, depicting them as commanding and influential individuals. This further solidifies Alaric's reputation as a name associated with strength, sovereignty, and historical significance.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Alaric over the years.

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