Log in · Sign up

Hendrik Boy

Popularity: #876 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationHEN-drik / ˈhɛndɹɪk

Dutch; German

Meaning

Dutch: ruler of the home; German: home ruler

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Hendrik is of Dutch and Germanic origin, derived from the Old High German name Haimirich, which is composed of the elements "haim," meaning "home" or "house," and "ric," meaning "ruler" or "power." This name evolved through various forms, including the Middle Dutch "Henric" and the Middle High German "Hinrich," before being anglicized to Hendrik in English contexts. The transition into English can be traced through the influence of Norman French, where the name was introduced following the Norman Conquest of England in the 11th century, becoming associated with the Latinized form "Henricus."

Historically, the name Hendrik has been borne by several notable figures, including Hendrik Antoon Lorentz, a Dutch physicist awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1902, and Hendrik Willem van Loon, a Dutch-American author and historian known for his works in the early 20th century. The name has also been linked to various monarchs and saints throughout European history, particularly in the context of the Holy Roman Empire, where it was often used among nobility. The name's presence in significant historical texts, such as the translations of the Bible into Dutch and German, further solidified its cultural importance.

Culturally, Hendrik carries connotations of leadership and strength, reflecting its etymological roots. The name has been associated with various traditions and folklore in Dutch and German-speaking regions, often symbolizing a protector or a figure of authority within the family or community. Diminutive forms such as Henk or Henrie have also emerged, reflecting a more familiar or affectionate usage of the name. Overall, Hendrik's enduring presence in various cultures underscores its historical significance and the values associated with its meaning.

Trend Summary

Hendrik has seen fluctuating popularity in the United States, with a modest presence in recent years.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Hendrick
  • Henrik

International Variants

  • Henri (French)
  • Heinrich (German)
  • Enrico (Italian)
  • Hendrikus (Dutch)

Famous people named Hendrik

Hendrik Antoon Lorentz was a physicist best known for his work on the electron theory and the Lorentz transformations.

Hendrik Willem van Loon was an author and journalist best known for his book The Story of Mankind, which won the first Newbery Medal.

Hendrik Ibsen was a playwright best known for A Doll's House, Hedda Gabler, and Ghosts.

Fictional characters named Hendrik

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Hendrik was first seen in the United States in 1917. Hendrik has ranked as high as #1271 nationally, which occurred in 2020, and has been most popular in California, Michigan, Texas, Minnesota, and Florida. In the past 5 years the name Hendrik has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Hendrik (2023)

StateBirthsShare
CA 12
46%
MI 9
35%
TX 5
19%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
19176
19246
19275
19325
19516
19537
19545
19559
19575
19588
19607
19615
19628
19639
196410
19668
19689
19696
19708
19767
19796
19805
19827
19836
198410
19868
19877
19887
19896
199012
199110
199212
199315
19948
19957
199613
199715
19988
19996
200019
200112
200214
200310
200417
200511
200624
200727
200814
200928
201026
201133
201253
201334
201466
201565
201671
201764
201870
201967
202085
202148
202266
202358
202448