Erik
Meaning & Origin
Meaning: Eternal Ruler; Always Ruler
Background: The name Erik originates from the Old Norse name Eiríkr, which combines 'ei' meaning 'ever' or 'always' and 'ríkr' meaning 'ruler' or 'king'. This name has roots in Germanic traditions and is prevalent in Norway and other Scandinavian countries.
At a glance
Quick stats based on the history of this name.
Lifetime rank
#218
Total births
157,566
Most popular decade
1980s
(109,824 births)
10-year trend
↓ Falling (-147 ranks)
Years in Top 100
23
First recorded year
1911
Gender usage
99.6% male
0.4% female
Stats by gender
Male
- First year
- 1911
- First year births
- 5
- First year rank
- #1,740
- Peak year
- 1980
- Peak year births
- 4,914
- Peak rank
- #64
- Most recent year
- 2024
- Recent year births
- 644
- Recent rank
- #476
Female
- First year
- 1964
- First year births
- 5
- First year rank
- #6,767
- Peak year
- 1980
- Peak year births
- 41
- Peak rank
- #2,342
- Most recent year
- 2008
- Recent year births
- 7
- Recent rank
- #13,831
Births over time
Number of babies given this name each year.
Rank over time
Popularity rank by year (1 = most popular).