Ulrich

Ulrich is a masculine given name of Germanic origin, dating to the medieval period. It derives from the Old High German Uodalrich, from uodal meaning inheritance or estate and rih meaning ruler or mighty, yielding a meaning along the lines of “wealthy ruler” or “he who owns the heritage.” The name spread throughout the German-speaking lands and into Scandinavia. Variants include Ulric, Ulrick, Ulrico, Ulrih, and feminine forms such as Ulrika and Ulrike.

Notable bearers include Saint Ulrich of Augsburg (c. 890–973), a bishop and patron saint; Ulrich Zwingli (1484–1531), a leader of the Swiss Reformation; and Ulrich von Liechtenstein (c. 1230–1275), a poet-knight. In modern times, notable people named Ulrich include Ulrich Beck (1944–2015), German sociologist; Ulrich Mühe (1953–2007), German actor; Ulrich Thomsen (born 1963), Danish actor; and Ulrich Seidl (born 1946), Austrian filmmaker.

Ulrich is primarily a given name in German-speaking countries, though it is also found as a surname on occasion. The name remains in use in Germany, Austria, and parts of Scandinavia, with various language-specific forms and diminutives. It has appeared in literature and film across European cultures, reflecting its long-standing presence in the region.