Derrick

Updated: October 10, 2023 by Olivia Mittak

Derrick is one of many alternative spellings of the name Derek. While versions of it were popular in Europe for several centuries, the name didn't become popular in the United States and most other English-speaking countries until the middle of the 20th century. During the 1970s and 1980s, it was even a top 100 baby name for boys.

Meaning and Origin of the Name Derrick:

Derrick is a derivative of the Germanic name Theodoric. That name was formed from the elements “þeud,” which means “people,” and “rīc,” which means “ruler”. Therefore, Derrick can be interpreted to mean “ruler of people”.

Symbolism of the Name Derrick:

Because Derrick means “ruler of the people,” the name may symbolize great leadership. New parents may choose it in hopes that their little ones grow up to be CEOs and managers.

Style of the Name Derrick:

Modern

Gender of the Name Derrick:

Derrick is a boy's name.

Pronunciation of the Name Derrick:

DEHR-ik

Number of Syllables in the Name Derrick:

Two

Emotion Evoked From the Name Derrick:

The baby name Derrick evokes images of someone who enjoys excitement and adventure.

Alternative Spellings for the Name Derrick:

Derek
Derrek
Derick
Derreck
Deric

Nicknames for the Name Derrick:

When it comes to this name, you have a lot of options for nicknames. Check out our complete list of the best nicknames for Derrick:

Der
Rex
Rick
Derry
Dirk
Eric
Erick
Dierks
Rix
Ricky
Rexers
Dick
Derck

Popularity of the Name Derrick:

Derrick first made the list of the top 1,000 baby names for boys in the United States in 1948. As of 2022, it ranks at number 715, according to the Social Security Administration.