Roderick
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Roderick
Roderick, which has 8 letters and 3 syllables, is a male name of German origin.
Meaning of Roderick
Famous ruler
Roderick is a name of Germanic origin, derived from the elements hrod, meaning “fame”, and ric, meaning “power”. It is generally interpreted to mean “famous ruler” or “famous power”.
| Meaning | Famous ruler |
| Origin | German |
| Gender | Boy |
| Popularity (US) | #982 in 2012 Declining Fast |
| Rarity (US) | Rare (Top 1000) |
| Era | 60s name |
Background & History of The Name Roderick
The name Roderick is a masculine given name with origins in both Germanic and Celtic languages. It is derived from the Old Germanic name Hroderich, which means "famous ruler" or "powerful ruler." Roderick is also believed to have Celtic roots, derived from the Celtic elements "hrod," meaning "fame," and "rikr," meaning "king" or "ruler." In England, Scotland, and Ireland, Roderick has been a popular name for centuries and is associated with strength and leadership.
Roderick has various forms and variations across different cultures. In German-speaking countries, it is often spelled as Roderich or Roderik. In Wales, the name is Anglicized as Rodri, and in Ireland and Scotland, it is often spelled as Ruaidhrí or Ruairí, reflecting the Gaelic form of the name. In Spanish-speaking countries, Roderick is sometimes spelled as Rodrigo, which has become more popular in recent years.
Roderick has appeared in literature and popular culture, further contributing to its recognition. One of the most famous literary figures with this name is Roderick Usher, a character in Edgar Allan Poe's gothic short story "The Fall of the House of Usher." Roderick has also been used in popular films, including Mel Brooks' comedy "Young Frankenstein" where the main character is named Dr. Frederick Frankenstein but often mistaken for Roderick.
Those with the name Roderick are often described as intelligent, charismatic, and ambitious individuals. They are natural leaders, capable of making tough decisions and inspiring those around them. The name Roderick has a timeless and classic quality that makes it a popular choice for parents looking for a strong and distinguished name for their sons.
Popularity Over Time
US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Roderick over the years.
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Nicknames
Common nicknames and short forms for Roderick.
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