Alaric
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Alaric
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'.
| 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.
Check Initials
See what initials Alaric would create with your last name.
Nicknames
Common nicknames and short forms for Alaric.
Save This Name
Create an account to save names to your lists and share with your partner.
Create Free Account