| Meaning | ruler of the people |
| Origin | English, German |
| Gender | Boy |
| Popularity | Popular |
| Length | 5 |
| Syllables | 2 |
| Syllabification | De-rek |
Derek, a name of English and Old German origin, embodies strength, authority, and leadership. With its roots in "Theodoric," meaning "ruler of the people," Derek carries a regal and commanding aura. It has remained a popular choice for baby boys since the mid-20th century.
Parents who choose the name Derek for their sons often envision them growing up to be confident and decisive individuals, capable of inspiring and leading others. The name's strong historical and cultural associations lend it a timeless appeal.
Famous individuals bearing the name Derek include Derek Jeter, the legendary baseball player, and Derek Jacobi, a renowned British actor. In fictional realms, characters like Derek Shepherd from "Grey's Anatomy" and Derek Hale from "Teen Wolf" have captivated audiences with their charisma and determination.
Whether in real life or fiction, Dereks are often seen as individuals with unwavering resolve and natural leadership qualities. If you're seeking a name that projects strength and inspires respect, Derek might be the perfect choice for your little prince.
| Der |
| Rick |
| Deke |
| DJ |
| Del |
| Derek Jeter | American former professional baseball player |
| Derek Hough | American dancer and choreographer |
| Derek Fisher | American former professional basketball player |
| Derek Carr | American football quarterback |
| Derek Jacobi | British actor |
| Derek Theler | American actor and model |
| Derek Redmond | British former sprinter |
| Derek Luke | American actor |
| Derek Landy | Irish author, known for the "Skulduggery Pleasant" series |
| Derek Trucks | American guitarist and songwriter |
| Derek Walcott | Saint Lucian poet and playwright, Nobel laureate |
| Derek Sherinian | American keyboardist and composer |
| Derek Anderson | American former professional basketball player |
| Derek Mears | American actor and stuntman |
| Derek Acorah | British television personality and spiritual medium |
| Derek Forbort | Canadian ice hockey player |
| Derek McInnes | Scottish football manager and former player |
| Derek Parfit | British philosopher |
| Derek Bailey | English avant-garde guitarist |
| Derek Fowlds | British actor |
| Derek Shepherd | Character from the TV show "Grey's Anatomy" |
| Derek Blunt | Character from the TV show "Torchwood" |
| Derek Zoolander | Main character in the movie "Zoolander" |
| Derek Vinyard | Character in the movie "American History X" |
| Derek Dunn | Character from the TV show "Degrassi - The Next Generation" |
| Derek C. Simmons | Character from the video game "Resident Evil 6" |
| Derek Kettering | Character from the Agatha Christie novel "The Mystery of the Blue Train" |
| Derek Wills | Character from the TV show "Smash" |
| Derek Reese | Character from the TV show "Continuum" |
| Derek Hale | Character from the TV show "Wolfblood" |
| Derek Taylor | Character from the TV show "One Tree Hill" |
| Derek Zander | Character from the TV show "The Fosters" |
| Derek Nurse | Character from the webcomic and TV show "Check, Please!" |
| Derek Landy | Character from the book series "The Demon Road Trilogy" by Derek Landy |
| Derek Morgan | Character from the book series "Hush, Hush" by Becca Fitzpatrick |