Derrick Boy
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
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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)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
TX | 31 | |
CA | 31 | |
FL | 16 | |
NY | 14 | |
GA | 14 | |
MS | 13 | |
LA | 13 | |
OH | 12 | |
IL | 11 | |
IN | 11 | |
PA | 11 | |
TN | 11 | |
MI | 9 | |
NC | 8 | |
MD | 8 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1917 | 5 |
1918 | 6 |
1928 | 6 |
1929 | 6 |
1930 | 5 |
1931 | 5 |
1932 | 7 |
1933 | 5 |
1934 | 7 |
1936 | 6 |
1937 | 6 |
1938 | 16 |
1940 | 8 |
1941 | 16 |
1942 | 14 |
1943 | 30 |
1944 | 23 |
1945 | 21 |
1946 | 27 |
1947 | 46 |
1948 | 65 |
1949 | 83 |
1950 | 171 |
1951 | 218 |
1952 | 302 |
1953 | 360 |
1954 | 507 |
1955 | 655 |
1956 | 809 |
1957 | 945 |
1958 | 1,028 |
1959 | 1,182 |
1960 | 1,178 |
1961 | 1,501 |
1962 | 1,577 |
1963 | 1,947 |
1964 | 2,092 |
1965 | 2,420 |
1966 | 2,437 |
1967 | 2,505 |
1968 | 2,595 |
1969 | 2,937 |
1970 | 3,446 |
1971 | 3,580 |
1972 | 3,088 |
1973 | 3,056 |
1974 | 2,958 |
1975 | 2,817 |
1976 | 2,921 |
1977 | 3,482 |
1978 | 3,786 |
1979 | 3,728 |
1980 | 4,135 |
1981 | 3,850 |
1982 | 3,657 |
1983 | 3,656 |
1984 | 3,661 |
1985 | 3,779 |
1986 | 3,326 |
1987 | 3,534 |
1988 | 3,308 |
1989 | 3,442 |
1990 | 3,363 |
1991 | 3,096 |
1992 | 2,914 |
1993 | 2,701 |
1994 | 2,574 |
1995 | 2,188 |
1996 | 1,995 |
1997 | 1,784 |
1998 | 1,756 |
1999 | 1,613 |
2000 | 1,596 |
2001 | 1,455 |
2002 | 1,437 |
2003 | 1,378 |
2004 | 1,324 |
2005 | 1,372 |
2006 | 1,362 |
2007 | 1,295 |
2008 | 1,197 |
2009 | 1,115 |
2010 | 1,038 |
2011 | 1,098 |
2012 | 1,053 |
2013 | 981 |
2014 | 913 |
2015 | 835 |
2016 | 748 |
2017 | 701 |
2018 | 610 |
2019 | 580 |
2020 | 518 |
2021 | 458 |
2022 | 370 |
2023 | 343 |
2024 | 305 |