Eric
BoyOld Norse
Eric is a boy name of Old Norse origin meaning "eternal ruler".
About this name
Gender
Boy
Language
Old Norse
Religion
None
Popularity
41 / 100
Syllables
2
Length
4 letters
Meaning
eternal ruler
Etymology
Derived from Old Norse Eiríkr, composed of Proto‑Germanic *aiwaz ‘ever’ and *ríks ‘ruler’.
Famous People Named Eric
- Eric Clapton — British musician
- Eric Walter Elst — Belgian astronomer (1936–2022)
Frequently Asked Questions About Eric
What does the name Eric mean?
Eric means "eternal ruler", and is of Old Norse origin.
What is the origin of the name Eric?
Eric originates from Old Norse, commonly used in Northern Europe.
Is Eric a boy or girl name?
Eric is typically used as a boy name.
What religion is the name Eric associated with?
Eric is associated with None.
Are there famous people named Eric?
Yes — notable people named Eric include Eric Clapton (British musician) and Eric Walter Elst (Belgian astronomer, 1936–2022).
Last updated: June 2026