Roderic Boy
Origin(s)
PronunciationROD-er-ik / /ˈrɒd.ər.ɪk/Germanic; Old High German
Meaning
Germanic: famous power; Old High German: renowned ruler
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Roderic has its roots in the ancient Germanic elements "hrod," meaning "fame," and "ric," meaning "ruler" or "power." This etymology suggests a meaning akin to "famous ruler." The name was introduced to the English language through the Old High German form "Hrothirich," which evolved into various forms in different languages, including the Old Norse "Hróðríkkr" and the Spanish "Rodrigo." The transition into English occurred during the medieval period, particularly influenced by the Norman Conquest of England in the 11th century, which brought many Norman and Germanic names into the English lexicon.
Historically, the name Roderic is associated with several notable figures, particularly in the context of medieval Spain. One of the most significant was Roderic, the last Visigothic king of Spain, who ruled from 710 to 712 AD. His reign is often marked by the Muslim conquest of the Iberian Peninsula, which led to significant cultural and political changes in the region. The name also appears in various literary works, including the epic poem "La Cantar de los Cantares," where Roderic is depicted as a tragic hero. The name's presence in historical texts and royal lineages contributed to its enduring legacy.
Culturally, Roderic has been associated with themes of leadership and valor, reflecting its etymological roots. In literature and folklore, figures bearing the name often embody the qualities of a noble leader or a tragic hero, resonating with the ideals of chivalry and honor prevalent in medieval narratives. The diminutive form "Rory" has also emerged in various cultures, further linking the name to themes of nobility and strength. Overall, Roderic's historical and cultural significance has allowed it to maintain a presence in various contexts throughout the centuries.
Trend Summary
Roderic has seen fluctuating popularity in the United States, with occasional peaks in usage.
Similar Names
Variants
- Rodrick
- Roderick
International Variants
- Roderico (Spanish)
- Roderik (Dutch)
- Roderic (English)
Famous people named Roderic
Roderic O'Connor is a painter best known for his works in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in the genre of landscape painting.
Fictional characters named Roderic
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Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Roderic was first seen in the United States in 1914. Roderic has ranked as high as #1047 nationally, which occurred in 1965, and has been most popular in California, Michigan, Mississippi, Georgia, and New York. In the past 5 years the name Roderic has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Roderic (1977)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
MS | 6 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1914 | 6 |
1915 | 8 |
1916 | 14 |
1917 | 7 |
1918 | 8 |
1919 | 13 |
1920 | 13 |
1921 | 6 |
1922 | 8 |
1923 | 8 |
1924 | 7 |
1925 | 9 |
1926 | 14 |
1927 | 17 |
1928 | 23 |
1929 | 14 |
1930 | 15 |
1931 | 19 |
1932 | 18 |
1933 | 18 |
1934 | 17 |
1935 | 18 |
1936 | 11 |
1937 | 13 |
1938 | 18 |
1939 | 17 |
1940 | 19 |
1941 | 29 |
1942 | 13 |
1943 | 21 |
1944 | 15 |
1945 | 23 |
1946 | 27 |
1947 | 28 |
1948 | 25 |
1949 | 27 |
1950 | 21 |
1951 | 38 |
1952 | 33 |
1953 | 30 |
1954 | 37 |
1955 | 29 |
1956 | 35 |
1957 | 37 |
1958 | 35 |
1959 | 43 |
1960 | 38 |
1961 | 49 |
1962 | 59 |
1963 | 58 |
1964 | 50 |
1965 | 68 |
1966 | 56 |
1967 | 45 |
1968 | 50 |
1969 | 55 |
1970 | 65 |
1971 | 44 |
1972 | 48 |
1973 | 48 |
1974 | 44 |
1975 | 28 |
1976 | 42 |
1977 | 35 |
1978 | 31 |
1979 | 30 |
1980 | 21 |
1981 | 16 |
1982 | 15 |
1983 | 12 |
1984 | 14 |
1985 | 20 |
1986 | 17 |
1987 | 21 |
1988 | 19 |
1989 | 17 |
1990 | 19 |
1991 | 17 |
1992 | 19 |
1993 | 12 |
1994 | 18 |
1995 | 14 |
1996 | 10 |
1997 | 17 |
1998 | 13 |
1999 | 16 |
2000 | 12 |
2001 | 13 |
2002 | 5 |
2003 | 13 |
2004 | 12 |
2005 | 12 |
2008 | 6 |
2009 | 9 |
2010 | 5 |
2011 | 7 |
2012 | 7 |
2013 | 8 |
2016 | 7 |
2017 | 6 |
2018 | 6 |
2019 | 6 |
2024 | 7 |