Roderick

boyGermanicChristian

Roderick is a boy name of Germanic origin, meaning “Famous ruler”.

MeaningFamous ruler
GenderBoy
OriginGermanic
PronunciationROD-er-ik
TraditionModern & Classic, Christian
Used inUnited Kingdom, United States

Meaning and origin of Roderick

Roderick comes from the Germanic Hrodric, from hrod (fame) and ric (ruler, power). The Visigothic king Roderic, who ruled Spain in the early eighth century, bore it, and the Spanish form Rodrigo descends from the same name. In Scotland Roderick was used to anglicise the Gaelic Ruairidh. Short forms include Rod, Roddy and Rory. The name had a revival in Victorian Britain thanks to romantic literature.

Is Roderick a religious name?

Roderick has no strong religious meaning; it is a historic European name used mostly in Christian countries.

How popular is Roderick?

An uncommon, traditional choice today in English-speaking countries.

Gifts with the name Roderick

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Spellings and variants of Roderick

RodrigoRoderichRodrigueRory

Names similar to Roderick

More boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Roderick mean?

Roderick means 'Famous ruler'. It is of Germanic origin.

Does Roderick have a religious meaning?

Roderick has no strong religious meaning; it is a historic European name used mostly in Christian countries.

How do you pronounce Roderick?

Roderick is pronounced ROD-er-ik.

Is Roderick a boy or girl name?

Roderick is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.