Cedric

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Cedric

Gender Boy
Origin English
Letters 6
Syllables 2
Pronunciation SEH-drik

Cedric, which has 6 letters and 2 syllables, is a male name of English origin.

Meaning of Cedric

Chief

Cedric is a masculine name derived from an Old Welsh name, Cerdic, which is thought to mean "bounty" or "gift." It is also related to the old English name Cedd, which is derived from an old Germanic name meaning “war.”

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(3.9/5 from 18 votes)
Meaning Chief
Origin English
Gender Boy
Popularity (US) #944 in 2024 Rising
Rarity (US) Rare (Top 1000)
Era 70s name

Background & History of The Name Cedric

Cedric is a male given name of English origin. It is derived from the Old English name "Cerdic," which means "ruler" or "warlord." The name Cedric gained popularity during the 19th century, especially in literature and is often associated with characters that possess noble qualities. One notable literary reference to Cedric is the character Cedric the Saxon from Sir Walter Scott's historical novel "Ivanhoe," published in 1819. In the novel, Cedric is portrayed as a stoic and proud Saxon nobleman who struggles to maintain his traditional values and resist the influence of the Normans.

The name Cedric saw a resurgence in popularity in the 20th century, particularly in the United States. It has become a relatively uncommon, yet cherished and distinctive name choice for parents. Cedric often symbolizes strength, leadership, and a sense of honor. It carries a certain vintage charm that appeals to individuals seeking a timeless name for their child.

Due to its English origins, Cedric is primarily used in English-speaking countries but has gained some recognition in various other regions around the world. It has variations in different languages, such as the French form "Cédric" and the Spanish form "Cedrico."

Notable individuals with the name Cedric include Cedric Hardwicke, a renowned British stage and screen actor from the early 20th century, Cedric Benson, an American professional football player, and Cedric the Entertainer, an American comedian and actor. These figures have contributed to the cultural significance and recognition of the name Cedric within their respective fields.

Popularity Over Time

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

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