“Derived from the Old High German name Theodoric, meaning 'ruler of the people'.”
American origin · Unisex name
♂ 99% boys♀ 1% girls
#758US 2023
343Births / yr
↓Falling
144.5kAll-time births
📅 Since 195400
How to pronounce Derrick
DER·ik
/ˈdɛr.ɪk/ · stress on DER · 2 syllables
“Derived from the Old High German name Theodoric, meaning 'ruler of the people'.”
American origin · Unisex name
What does Derrick mean and where does it come from?
Originally a male name, Derrick is increasingly used for females as part of the trend of using traditionally male names for girls. It has been noted in popular culture and literature, further transforming its use. Notable figures with the name include Derrick Rose, a basketball player.
Cultural significance
Derrick has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of derived from the old high german name theodoric, meaning 'ruler of the people'..
Declining — down 45 spots — currently #758 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1960–2023#758 · Top 0.56%
1960
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2005
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#758
343
▼ down 45 · -7% births
2022
#713
370
▼ down 107 · -19% births
2021
#606
458
▲ up 12523 · +6443% births
2005
#13129
7
▼ down 4254 · -22% births
1995
#8875
9
▼ down 2356 · -31% births
1990
#6519
13
▼ down 4145 · -69% births
1985
#2374
42
▲ up 248 · +17% births
1980
#2622
36
▼ down 544 · -14% births
1975
#2078
42
▲ up 206 · +24% births
1970
#2284
34
▲ up 1536 · +183% births
1965
#3820
12
▲ up 762 · +33% births
1960
#4582
9
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Derrick
2021Rank #606
458
#4030
↘Falling
1960 - 202312 years
The story of Derrick
Derrick entered American naming records in 1954 and has been in use for over 70 years. More than 144,545 babies have been named Derrick since 1954. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4582 in 1960 to #758 in 2023. Derrick is used for both genders: 1% female and 99% male.
Derrick means "Derived from the Old High German name Theodoric, meaning 'ruler of the people'." — a name rooted in American tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Derrick?
Derrick is currently ranked #758 as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Derrick?
Derrick originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Derrick?
Derrick is a two-syllable name pronounced D EH1 R IH0 K. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Derrick more of a girl or boy name?
Derrick is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
Sibling names that pair with Derrick
For a sister
Derrick & Weston♡
Derrick & Austin♡
Derrick & Summer♡
Derrick & Ashton♡
For a brother
Derrick & Wesley♡
Derrick & Weston♡
Derrick & Austin♡
Derrick & Summer♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#758
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
—
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