Cedric

boyEnglish

Cedric is an boy name of English, literary origin, meaning “Uncertain; literary invention”.

MeaningUncertain; literary invention
GenderBoy
OriginEnglish, literary
PronunciationSED-rik
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inUnited Kingdom, United States, France

Meaning and origin of Cedric

Cedric was popularised by Sir Walter Scott, who gave it to the Saxon nobleman Cedric in his 1819 novel Ivanhoe. Scott probably adapted the name of Cerdic, the legendary founder of the kingdom of Wessex, whose name may itself be Brittonic in origin, but its meaning is not known. Frances Hodgson Burnett's Little Lord Fauntleroy, Cedric Errol, gave it further fame, as did Cedric Diggory in the Harry Potter books.

Is Cedric a religious name?

Cedric has no religious background; it is a literary name.

How popular is Cedric?

Uncommon today, though recognised in English-speaking countries and France.

Gifts with the name Cedric

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Spellings and variants of Cedric

CedrickCerdicSedric

Names similar to Cedric

More boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Cedric mean?

Cedric means 'Uncertain; literary invention'. It is of English, literary origin.

Does Cedric have a religious meaning?

Cedric has no religious background; it is a literary name.

How do you pronounce Cedric?

Cedric is pronounced SED-rik.

Is Cedric a boy or girl name?

Cedric is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.