Fred

What does the baby name Fred mean? Learn about what Fred means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Fred - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Fred: F-R-E-D, is a 4-letter male given name.
Pronunciation of Fred: FRED
Meaning of Fred: Peaceful ruler, peace ruler, calm monarch.
Origin of Fred: The name 'Fred' finds its origins in the Germanic language, specifically Old English. It is derived from the Old English name 'Friduric', which is composed of the elements 'fridu', meaning 'peace', and 'ric', meaning 'ruler' or 'king'. The earliest known use of the name can be traced back to the 9th century, where it appeared in various forms such as 'Fred'ric' and 'Friduric.'; Classic Names; Dutch Names; English Names; German Names; Germanic Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Fred: Aelfric; Ailfrid; Ailfryd; Al; Alfeo; Alfie; Alfred; Alfredas; Alfredo; Alfried; Avery; Elfric; Elfrid; Eric; Erich; Erico; Erik; Federico; Federigo; Freddie; Fredek; Frederick; Frederico; Frederigo; Fredo; Fridrich; Friedel; Friedrich; Fritz; Fritzchen; Fritzl; Rick; Ricky
Popularity of Fred: Over the centuries, the popularity of the name 'Fred' has experienced its fair share of fluctuations. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it witnessed a notable spike in usage, thanks to the influence of the British royal family. King 'Fred'erick William IV of Prussia, who reigned from 1840 to 1861, brought attention to the name and its variants, leading to its increased popularity.; Fred currently has 290 likes, and is in the top 2% of liked boy's names. The name Theo is slightly more popular than Fred.

Etymology of Fred

To truly understand the essence of a name, we must explore its linguistic roots. As mentioned earlier, 'Fred' is derived from the Old English name 'Friduric'. The element 'fridu' signifies peace, reflecting the desire for harmony and tranquility. Meanwhile, 'ric' denotes a ruler or king, symbolizing strength and authority. Together, these elements paint a picture of a peaceful ruler, someone who seeks to lead with grace and fairness.

Cultural Significance of Fred

While the name 'Fred' may not possess a specific cultural significance, it holds a universal appeal that transcends borders. Its simplicity and approachability make it a name that can be embraced by individuals from various cultural backgrounds. In this sense, 'Fred' represents a name that unites rather than divides, a testament to the power of inclusivity.