Frederic

Frederic is a given name of Germanic origin, derived from the elements frid meaning peace and ric meaning ruler, together typically interpreted as "peaceful ruler." It has many variant spellings and forms, including Frederick (the most common English form), Frédéric (French), Frédérik (Danish, Norwegian, Icelandic variants), and Frederik (Danish, Dutch, and other European forms). The name has been used across Europe for centuries and has been borne by royalty, clergy, and artists.

In English-speaking countries, Frederic is less common today than Frederick, but it persists in literature and among families that favor traditional spellings. Diminutive forms such as Fred and Freddie are commonly used in informal settings. The accented French form Frédéric is prevalent in Francophone contexts, and many notable figures use that spelling in their native language, while English references may adopt Frederic.

Notable individuals bearing the exact spelling Frederic include Frederic Remington (1861–1909), an American painter, sculptor, and illustrator known for depictions of the American West. The name also appears in other contexts; for example, Sir Frederic Leighton (1830–1896) is a celebrated English painter, though his name is often presented with the same Frederic spelling in English sources. The historically rich name has many linguistic cousins, reflecting its enduring appeal across cultures.

In summary, Frederic is a traditional, cross-cultural given name with several regional spellings and a legacy in art, science, and leadership.