Ritchie

Ritchie is a name that can refer to people or places. As a surname, it is of Scottish origin, derived from the given name Richard, and it has spread to other parts of the world through migration. Variants and related forms include Richie, and in some cases Ricci or other language-adapted spellings.

As a given name or nickname, Ritchie is commonly used as an informal form of Richard. Notable individuals who use Ritchie as a first name or stage name include Ritchie Valens, an American rock and roll pioneer (1941–1959); Ritchie Sambora, guitarist of Bon Jovi (born 1959); and Ritchie Blackmore, guitarist known for Deep Purple (born 1945).

Geographically, Ritchie refers to places such as Ritchie, Alberta, a locality in Canada. While not a widely distributed place name, it is recognized in regional nomenclature and maps.

In business and culture, the name appears in organizational names such as Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers, a Canadian-based company that operates one of the world’s largest auction marketplaces for used heavy equipment.

Overall, Ritchie functions as both a surname and a given name, with cultural presence in music and entertainment, geography, and commerce. See also the variant Richie for related uses and individuals.