Back to Baby Names

Derek vs Damon

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Derek

Boy #258 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"ruler of the people"

Origin: Germanic

Cultural Roots

English American Dutch German

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#258
Total SSA Count
1,355
Syllables
2
Formality
Moderate

Playground Safety Score

All Clear

Similar Names

Damon

Boy #456 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"to tame, to subdue"

Origin: Ancient Greek

Cultural Roots

Greek English American

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#456
Total SSA Count
686
Syllables
2
Formality
Moderate

Playground Safety Score

All Clear

Similar Names

Popularity Comparison

Derek Rank #258
Damon Rank #456

Derek is more popular, ranked #258 vs #456 for Damon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Derek or Damon more popular?

Derek is more popular, ranked #258 compared to Damon at #456 in the United States.

What do Derek and Damon mean?

Derek means "ruler of the people" (Germanic origin). Damon means "to tame, to subdue" (Ancient Greek origin).

Are Derek and Damon boy or girl names?

Derek is primarily a boy name. Damon is primarily a boy name.

More Comparisons