Derek vs River

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Derek

Boy #258 Most Popular 2 Syllables

"ruler of the people"

Origin: Germanic

English American Dutch German

✓ All Clear

Boy #112 Most Popular 2 Syllables

"flowing body of water, stream"

Origin: Old French

English American Australian

✓ All Clear

Derek Rank #258

River Rank #112

River is more popular, ranked #112 vs #258 for Derek.

Is Derek or River more popular?

River is more popular, ranked #112 compared to Derek at #258 in the United States.

What do Derek and River mean?

Derek means "ruler of the people" (Germanic origin). River means "flowing body of water, stream" (Old French origin).

Are Derek and River boy or girl names?

Derek is primarily a boy name. River is primarily a boy name.