Derrick

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Derrick

Gender Boy
Origin English
Letters 7
Syllables 2
Pronunciation duh-rik

Derrick, which has 7 letters and 2 syllables, is a male name of English origin.

Meaning of Derrick

Famous ruler

Derrick is a masculine given name of Old French origin, derived from the Latin name Theodoric, meaning “ruler of the people”. It is sometimes a surname as well.

Save
Rate:
(1.3/5 from 4 votes)
Meaning Famous ruler
Origin English
Gender Boy
Popularity (US) #818 in 2024 Declining Fast
Rarity (US) Rare (Top 1000)
Era 80s name

Background & History of The Name Derrick

The name 'Derrick' is of German origin and has a rich history. Derived from the Germanic word 'theodoric', which means "ruler of the people," it is commonly used as both a given name and a surname. Derrick is predominantly a male name and has been popular for centuries.

The popularity of the name Derrick can be attributed to several factors. It gained prominence particularly during the medieval period when Theodoric the Great, also known as Dietrich von Bern, ruled as a Germanic king. Theodoric the Great's power and influence in the region contributed to the increased usage of the name. Over time, the name evolved into different variations, including Derek, Derryck, and even Derrek, making it versatile and adaptable across different cultures and languages.

Derrick carries with it a sense of strength and leadership. People with this name are often perceived as confident and determined. Additionally, those named Derrick tend to be intelligent, creative, and have a natural ability to inspire and motivate others. These traits are reflected in the name's symbolic meaning of "ruler of the people," highlighting an innate capability to guide and govern.

Throughout history, Derrick has found its way into various arenas, including literature, sports, and entertainment. It has been the name of characters in classic works such as William Shakespeare's "The Tempest" and Walter Scott's "Ivanhoe." In the realm of sports, Derrick Rose, a professional basketball player, has achieved great success and brought further recognition to the name. Moreover, the name has graced the credits of numerous films and TV shows, adding to its appeal and familiarity.

In conclusion, Derrick is a Germanic name that carries a deep historical significance. With its associations of leadership and influence, it has remained popular over time. The name's versatility and adaptability have enabled it to transcend cultural and linguistic boundaries, making it widely recognized globally. Whether chosen for its historical roots or its symbolic meaning, Derrick is a name that continues to be cherished by many parents worldwide.

Popularity Over Time

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

Check Initials

See what initials Derrick would create with your last name.

Nicknames

Common nicknames and short forms for Derrick.

Save This Name

Create an account to save names to your lists and share with your partner.

Create Free Account

Partner Matching

Rate names with your partner and find the ones you both love.

Learn More

Sibling Matcher

Find names that pair well with your existing children's names.

Find Sibling Names