Eric

Eric is a surname of Scandinavian origin that is common in the British Isles. The name derives from the Old Norse name Eiríkr, which is composed of the elements ei meaning "ever" or "always", and ríkr meaning "ruler" or "mighty".

The surname Eric is found throughout the United Kingdom, with historical records showing concentrations in regions with strong Viking or Scandinavian influence, such as in northern England and Scotland. The name may have been brought to Britain during the Viking Age, when Norse settlers and warriors arrived and intermingled with the local population.

Variants of the name Eric include Erick, Erik, and Erickson. Over time, variations in spelling have emerged due to changes in pronunciation and evolving naming conventions.

Today, individuals with the surname Eric can be found across the UK and in various parts of the world where British emigrants settled. The name carries with it a heritage of Norse origins and reflects the enduring influence of Viking culture on British society.

There are approximately 197 people named Eric in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around three in a million people in Britain are named Eric.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Alasdair
  • Arthur
  • Daniel
  • David
  • Ergun
  • Haydar
  • Hedley
  • John
  • Nicholas
  • Ryan
  • Thomas
  • Walter

Female

  • Angela
  • Caroline
  • Debbie
  • Gail
  • Hazal
  • Mavis
  • Ozlem
  • Salome
  • Selma
  • Smitha

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

BritishSurnames.uk is a Good Stuff website.