Frederick

Peaceful ruler — a boy name of German origin

GenderBoy
OriginGerman
MeaningPeaceful ruler
PronunciationFRED-er-ik

Popularity of Frederick in the United States

#435Rank in 2025
728Births in 2025
#33 in 1880Peak Popularity
→ Stable10-Year Trend

Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.

Meaning & Origin of Frederick

Frederick comes from the Germanic elements "frid" (peace) and "ric" (ruler, power), meaning "peaceful ruler." The name was borne by numerous European monarchs, most notably Frederick the Great, King of Prussia, who transformed his kingdom into a major European power during the 18th century. Frederick Douglass, the escaped slave who became one of America's most influential abolitionists and orators, is another towering figure associated with the name. Frederick has been a staple of royal and noble families across Europe for centuries. Though it has declined from its Victorian-era peak, it retains a distinguished and stately quality.

Frederick Around the World

Frederick is used in 2 languages worldwide, with 16+ international variants.

Languages
EnglishDutch
Details

TypeMale given name

International Variants
FrigyesHungarian
FredDutch
FridolinGerman
FredrikDutch
FriedrichGerman
FredericCatalan
FedericoItalian
FrédéricFrench
FrederikDutch
FryderykPolish
Frederig
Frederiko
FreerkDutch
FriederichGerman
Fredrick
Frédérik

Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.

Nicknames for Frederick

FredFreddieRickFritz

Famous People Named Frederick

  • Frederick Douglass — American abolitionist and orator
  • Frederick the Great — King of Prussia
  • Fred Astaire — American dancer and actor

Similar Names to Frederick

If you like Frederick, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.

Also consider:EdmundLeonardArchibaldReginald

Sibling Name Ideas for Frederick

Looking for names that pair well with Frederick? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Frederick mean?

Frederick is a boy name of German origin meaning "Peaceful ruler." Frederick comes from the Germanic elements "frid" (peace) and "ric" (ruler, power), meaning "peaceful ruler." The name was borne by numerous European monarchs, most notably Frederick the Great, King of Prussia, who transformed his kingdom into a major European power during the 18th century.

How do you pronounce Frederick?

Frederick is pronounced FRED-er-ik. Common variations include Friedrich, Frederic, Fredrik.

Is Frederick a boy name?

Yes, Frederick is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Fred, Freddie, Rick, Fritz.

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