Eric is a regal name with plenty of modern influence. With its roots in the legendary Viking period, Eric was the name of three kings of Norway, six kings of Sweden, and seven kings of Denmark. In more recent popular culture, Eric “Blade” Brooks was character in the Marvel Universe, and Eric Matthews was an important character in Boy Meets World. Keep reading to learn more about this name.
Meaning of the name Eric:
Old Norse: Eternal ruler
Origin of the name Eric:
Eric is an Old Norse name derived from the North Germanic words ei (meaning “always,” “alone,” or “forever”) and ríkr (meaning “ruler”). The name Eric means “eternal ruler.”
Symbolism of the name Eric:
Eric is an Old Norse name that means “eternal ruler.” In Norse mythology, the symbol for eternal rule is Gungnir (the spear of Odin).
Style of the name Eric:
Classic
Gender of the name Eric:
Eric is a boy's name.
Pronunciation of the name Eric:
AIR-ik
Number of syllables in the name Eric:
Two
Emotion evoked from the name Eric:
The name Eric evokes feelings of prominence and power.
Alternative spellings for the name Eric:
- Erik
- Erick
- Eirik
- Erich
- Eryc
- Airic
- Airik
Nicknames for the name Eric:
- Ric
- Ricky
Popularity of the name Eric:
According to the Social Security Administration index, Eric was the 198th most popular baby name for boys in 2020. Eric has ranked among the top 200 names for boys since 2011.
Related names for the name Eric
Great middle names for Eric and their meanings:
- Alistair (defender of men)
- Avery (ruler of the elves)
- Daniel (God is my judge)
- Emmanuel (God is with us)
- Finn (fair)
- Laurence (from Laurentum, laurel tree)
- Nolan (champion)
- Sebastian (venerable, revered)
- Tobias (God is good)
- Wilfred (desiring peace)
Famous people with the name Eric:
- Eric Thomas Andolsek (football player)
- Eric Samuel André (comedian)
- Eric Marlon Bishop (actor)
- Eric Oliver “Nick” Bravin (Olympic athlete)
- Eric Victor Burdon (singer)
- Eric Patrick Clapton (musician)
- Eric Benét Jordan (singer)
- Eric Scott Melvin (musician)
- Eric Christian Olsen (actor)
- Eric Burnell Zentner (model)
Eric in popular culture:
- Eric “Blade” Brooks (character in the Marvel Universe)
- Eric Theodore Cartman (main character in South Park)
- Eric “E” Murphy (main character in Entourage)
- Eric Matthews (ensemble character in Boy Meets World and the spinoff Girl Meets World)
- Eric Albert Forman (ensemble character on That '70s Show)
- Eric Van Der Woodsen (supporting character in Gossip Girl)