US Popularity Rank: 916

Origin: Russian

Meaning: ever or eternal ruler

More so than Eric with a “C,” Erik with a “K” evokes the image of a fearless adventurer who shows great bravery and strength, much like Erik the Red, a renowned Viking explorer. It’s a short but powerful name with a meaning—“ever or eternal ruler”—that's serious stuff. It’s no wonder then that Erik was also the name of several Scandinavian kings centuries ago. Though it comes in third place after Eric and Erick, it still rules many a parent’s heart.