Frederick

The first name Frederick represents an English as well as a French variant of the Old High German name Friedrich, with the French spelling being Frédérick. The meaning of the name is 'the peaceful ruler' or 'the ruler of peace' and is derived from the Old High German words fridu, meaning 'peace, protection', and rihhi, meaning 'powerful, rich, ruler'.

What does the name Frederick mean?

Frederick is both an English and a French form of the Old High German Friedrich. The name carries the meaning 'the peaceful ruler' or 'the ruler of peace', derived from the Old High German terms fridu for 'peace, protection' and rihhi for 'powerful, rich, ruler'. In England, Fredrick is a common variant, while in Germany and Scandinavia, the Low German and Danish form Frederik is particularly prevalent. The female counterpart is Fredericka.

Where does the name Frederick come from?

The name Frederick has its roots in Old High German and means 'the peaceful ruler' or 'the ruler of peace'. It consists of the Old High German elements fridu, which means 'peace, protection, security', and rihhi, which means 'powerful, rich, ruler'. The languages in which the name appears are English and French.

How do you pronounce Frederick?

The pronunciation of Frederick is three syllables and distinct. It is most commonly pronounced as 'Fre-de-rick' [ˈfʁeːdʁɪk]. The name begins with a consonant cluster that gives it a certain structure. The long 'e' sound provides a bright start, while the hard 'k' at the end creates a striking conclusion. Frederick conveys a classic and confident impression and is a name with traditional depth and clear form.

When is the name day of Frederick?

The name day of Frederick is celebrated on July 18 to commemorate Saint Frederik van Utrecht.

Popularity

In Germany, the first name Frederick enjoys great popularity. Currently, it ranks 401st on the list of the most common male first names. Its best placement was in 2021, reaching 275th place. Over the last ten years, Frederick has been chosen as a first name about 2,000 times, earning it 339th place in the ten-year statistics. From 2010 to 2024, it ranks 347th.

Nicknames & pet names

Fre / Fred / Fred-Erik / Fredde / Freddie / Freddy / Fredel / Fredericus / Fredi / Fredo / Freedi / Freek / Fretzel / Fritchen / Friti / Fritte / Fritöse / Rick / Ricki / Ricky

Similar first names

Famous people

• Frederick A. Williams (composer from America)
• Frederick Bailey (English cricketer)
• Frederick Barnard (British artist)
• Frederick Bellars (American long-distance runner)
• Frederick Chamier (British writer)
• Frederick Chapman (cricketer from Australia)
• Frederick Chapman Robbins (1916–2003, microbiologist and physician)
• Frederick Dana Marsh (artist from Germany)
• Frederick Delius (composer, England (1862-1934)
• Frederick F. Faris (architect from America)
• Frederick Gordon-Lennox of Richmond (racing driver from Great Britain)
• Frederick Hervey-Bathurst (British cricketer)
• Frederick James Hargreaves (American astronomer)
• Frederick Julius Pohl (American historian)
• Frederick Laker (British aviation entrepreneur)
• Frederick Lau (actor)
• Frederick Mansfield (American tennis player)
• Frederick McCarthy (Australian archaeologist)
• Frederick McLaren (English cricketer)
• Frederick Piper (British actor)