Derek vs Paul

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Derek

Boy #258 Most Popular 2 Syllables

"ruler of the people"

Origin: Germanic

English American Dutch German

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Boy #264 Most Popular 1 Syllable

"small, humble"

Origin: Latin Paulus

Latin Christian English French German Spanish

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Derek Rank #258

Paul Rank #264

Derek is more popular, ranked #258 vs #264 for Paul.

Is Derek or Paul more popular?

Derek is more popular, ranked #258 compared to Paul at #264 in the United States.

What do Derek and Paul mean?

Derek means "ruler of the people" (Germanic origin). Paul means "small, humble" (Latin Paulus origin).

Are Derek and Paul boy or girl names?

Derek is primarily a boy name. Paul is primarily a boy name.