Eric: Name Day, Name Meaning & More

Name days are celebrations tied to saints or religious figures, often coinciding with traditional naming customs. They represent a cultural practice of honoring a patron saint associated with a particular name. Eric, a name with strong Norse origins, carries a history of power and leadership. Its mood is one of quiet strength and dependability, and it is traditionally a masculine name. Eric also has recognized name days in several European countries and the USA.

Name Day: Dates by Country

Eric's name day is celebrated on May 17 in Spain and May 18 in France and the USA.

Eric’s Global and US Presence

Eric experienced a surge in popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century, peaking in the 1960s and 70s, though it remains a consistently used name today. It’s widely recognized across Scandinavia, particularly in Sweden, Norway, and Denmark, and also enjoys popularity in Germanic countries like Germany and the Netherlands. Beyond Europe and North America, Eric is found in Canada and Australia, often as a result of historical migration patterns. While not as common, it appears in various forms in other cultures, demonstrating its adaptability. The name’s classic feel contributes to its enduring appeal, making it a familiar choice across generations. Its usage has seen a slight decline in recent years, but it maintains a solid presence.

Eric’s Norse Roots Explained

The name Eric is deeply rooted in Old Norse tradition, evolving from the name *Eiríkr*. This name is constructed from the elements *ei*, meaning “ever” or “always,” and *ríkr*, meaning “ruler” or “powerful.” Therefore, the combined meaning suggests “ever powerful” or “eternal ruler.” It was a common name among Viking kings and warriors, lending it a historical association with strength and leadership. The name spread with the Viking expansion and subsequent Scandinavian influence throughout Europe.

Eric’s Predominantly Male Identity

Eric is overwhelmingly considered a masculine name globally. While extremely rare instances of its use for females exist, it is almost exclusively given to boys. In English-speaking countries, and particularly in the USA, it is firmly established as a male name. Scandinavian countries maintain this strong masculine association, as do most European nations. There are no significant cultural contexts where Eric is commonly used as a female name.

Eric’s Strength and Dependability

Eric evokes a sense of strength, reliability, and quiet confidence. It carries a classic, somewhat reserved vibe, suggesting intelligence and a thoughtful nature. The name doesn’t feel overly flashy or trendy, instead projecting a grounded and dependable personality. There’s a subtle hint of adventure and capability, stemming from its historical associations. Overall, Eric feels like a name belonging to someone capable and trustworthy.

Unlocking the Hidden Meaning of Name: Eric

Your name is more than just a label - it holds a unique energy that influences your personality, destiny, and life path. Through numerology and astrology, we uncover the deeper meanings behind your name, revealing your strengths, challenges, and the energy you bring into the world.

Pythagorean Numerology: The Hidden Meaning of Name

Destiny number: 8 – The Powerhouse.
Keywords: Power, ambition, material success, authority, confidence.
Positive Traits: Strong-willed, business-minded, disciplined, ambitious, efficient.
Challenges: Can be materialistic, controlling, or work-obsessed.
Life Path Meaning: A path focused on achieving success, power, and financial security.

Chaldean Numerology: Name Energy and Spiritual Insights

First name number: 11 - The Visionary.
Highly spiritual, intuitive, inspiring, and a natural guide for others.
Can struggle with anxiety, sensitivity, or self-doubt.

The Cosmic Secret Code: What The Name Says About You

The name is linked to the planet that governs it, shaping the name's meaning and influencing the traits associated with it.
Planet: Saturn - Discipline, Responsibility, Structure.
Saturn represents discipline, structure, and perseverance. Names influenced by Saturn often belong to individuals who are serious, wise, and highly responsible. These names reflect resilience, patience, and a strong work ethic. People with Saturn-ruled names tend to be grounded and practical, often taking on leadership roles that require long-term planning and commitment.

Name days: Name Eric

This list shows name days in different countries where the name is written in the same form. The dates are based on traditional calendars and cultural name celebrations. If your name matches exactly, you can see when it is honored in various parts of the world.

Country	Month	Day	Name days
Spain	May	17	Eric, Erica, Pascual
France	May	18	Eric
USA	May	18	Aric, Eric, Erica, Erich, Erick, Ericka, Erik, Erika, Perry

Name days: Similar names (Eric)

Here you’ll find name days for names that are similar in spelling, pronunciation, or origin. Many cultures group related names together, even if they are not identical. If your name has a close variation, you may find relevant name day dates in this section.

Country	Month	Day	Name days
Italy	January	28	Angela Merici
Spain	March	1	Eudoxia, Eudoxio, Federico, Rosendo
USA	March	13	Rod, Rodd, Roderica, Roderick, Rodney, Rodrigo, Rory, Solomon
Greece	April	10	Dionisis, Eteoklis, Hercules, Homer, Pericles, Sofocles, Timothy
Austria	May	18	Erich, Erika, Felix, Johannes
Estonia	May	18	Eeri, Eerik, Eero, Ergi, Ergo, Erich, Erik, Erki, Erko
USA	May	27	Broderick, Brodie, Brody, Isador, Isadora, Isadore, Isidro
USA	July	1	Aaron, Aron, Arron, Derek, Derica, Derick, Derik, Derrick, Derris, Derry, Dirk, Inga, Ingrid, Theodoric
USA	July	4	America, Calvert, Calverta, Calvin, Calvina, Kalvin
France	July	18	Frédéric
Italy	July	18	Federico
Spain	July	18	Emiliano, Federico, Luz
USA	July	18	Fred, Freda, Freddie, Freddy, Frederica, Frederick, Frederico, Fredrick, Fredy
France	August	29	Médéric, Sabine
Croatia	October	6	Bruno, Fides, Verica, Vjera
France	November	4	Aymeric, Charles, Jessé
Austria	November	5	Bernhard, Berthild, Emmerich
Croatia	December	20	Perica, Petar Kanizije

Eric’s Legacy and Enduring Appeal

In conclusion, Eric is a name steeped in history, originating from Old Norse roots and signifying ‘ever powerful.’ It’s predominantly a masculine name, widely recognized and used across the globe, particularly in Scandinavia and North America. The name projects a mood of strength, reliability, and quiet confidence, making it a timeless choice. Its association with name days in various cultures adds another layer to its rich heritage.

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