erik

Erik is a male given name used in many European languages. It originates from the Old Norse name Eiríkr, composed of the elements ei- meaning 'ever' or 'eternal' and ríkr meaning 'ruler,' yielding the meaning 'eternal ruler' or 'ever powerful ruler.' The name has appeared in medieval Norse sagas and royal lineages, contributing to its enduring popularity in northern Europe.

Spelling variants include Erik, Eric, and Erich, with language-specific forms such as Eiríkur in Icelandic, Eerik in Estonian, Eirik in Norwegian and Icelandic, and Éric in French. The English form Eric often uses a different vowel sound, reflecting the name's long-standing assimilation into English. In some languages, the name is paired with feminine forms such as Erika or Ericka.

Erik remains common in the Nordic countries and has spread to other parts of Europe and North America, where it is chosen for its classic yet modern sound. The name is associated with a number of figures across politics, sports, science, and the arts, reflecting its broad cultural reach. As with many traditional names, popularity varies by era and region, but Erik remains a recognized and versatile given name.