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Derrick Boy

Popularity: #631 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationDER-ik / /ˈdɛrɪk/

English; German

Meaning

English: ruler; German: powerful

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Derrick has its roots in the Old High German name "Theodoric," which is composed of the elements "theud," meaning "people," and "ric," meaning "ruler" or "power." This name evolved through various linguistic stages, transitioning from Old High German to Middle Dutch as "Diederik," and then to the Anglo-Norman form "Derrick." The name entered the English language during the Middle Ages, particularly gaining traction in the 14th century, when it was used in various forms across England and the Low Countries.

Historically, the name Derrick is associated with several notable figures, including Saint Theodoric, a 6th-century bishop in the region that is now modern-day France. The name gained further prominence in the English-speaking world through its association with the executioner’s gallows, known as a "Derrick," named after a 17th-century English hangman, which reflects a more somber aspect of the name's history. This connection, while macabre, illustrates the name's entrenchment in English cultural history.

Culturally, Derrick has been associated with leadership and strength due to its etymological roots. The symbolic meaning of "ruler of the people" resonates with various traditions that emphasize the importance of leadership and governance. Additionally, the name has various diminutive forms, such as "Derry," which have been used in different contexts, though these are less prominent in historical records. Overall, Derrick's journey through language and history illustrates a blend of cultural significance and linguistic evolution.

Trend Summary

Derrick has seen fluctuating popularity in the United States, peaking in the 1980s and 1990s.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Derick
  • Derrik

International Variants

  • Derrick (English)
  • Derrique (French)

Famous people named Derrick

Derrick Rose is a professional basketball player best known for playing with the Chicago Bulls, winning the NBA MVP award, and being a three-time NBA All-Star.

Derrick Johnson is a former professional American football linebacker best known for his time with the Kansas City Chiefs and being a two-time Pro Bowler.

Derrick Coleman is a former professional basketball player best known for playing with the New Jersey Nets, winning the NBA Rookie of the Year award, and being a two-time NBA All-Star.

Derrick F. Abell is a notable physicist best known for his contributions to the field of condensed matter physics and his work on quantum mechanics.

Fictional characters named Derrick

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Derrick was first seen in the United States in 1917. Derrick has ranked as high as #146 nationally, which occurred in 1980, and has been most popular in California, Illinois, New York, Florida, and Georgia. In the past 5 years the name Derrick has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Derrick (2024)

StateBirthsShare
TX 31
12%
CA 31
12%
FL 16
6%
NY 14
5%
GA 14
5%
MS 13
5%
LA 13
5%
OH 12
4%
IL 11
4%
IN 11
4%
PA 11
4%
TN 11
4%
MI 9
3%
NC 8
3%
MD 8
3%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
19175
19186
19286
19296
19305
19315
19327
19335
19347
19366
19376
193816
19408
194116
194214
194330
194423
194521
194627
194746
194865
194983
1950171
1951218
1952302
1953360
1954507
1955655
1956809
1957945
19581,028
19591,182
19601,178
19611,501
19621,577
19631,947
19642,092
19652,420
19662,437
19672,505
19682,595
19692,937
19703,446
19713,580
19723,088
19733,056
19742,958
19752,817
19762,921
19773,482
19783,786
19793,728
19804,135
19813,850
19823,657
19833,656
19843,661
19853,779
19863,326
19873,534
19883,308
19893,442
19903,363
19913,096
19922,914
19932,701
19942,574
19952,188
19961,995
19971,784
19981,756
19991,613
20001,596
20011,455
20021,437
20031,378
20041,324
20051,372
20061,362
20071,295
20081,197
20091,115
20101,038
20111,098
20121,053
2013981
2014913
2015835
2016748
2017701
2018610
2019580
2020518
2021458
2022370
2023343
2024305