Derek vs Russell

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Derek

Boy #258 Most Popular 2 Syllables

"ruler of the people"

Origin: Germanic

English American Dutch German

✓ All Clear

Boy #368 Most Popular 2 Syllables

"red-haired, little red one"

Origin: Old French

English Scottish American Australian

✓ All Clear

Derek Rank #258

Russell Rank #368

Derek is more popular, ranked #258 vs #368 for Russell.

Is Derek or Russell more popular?

Derek is more popular, ranked #258 compared to Russell at #368 in the United States.

What do Derek and Russell mean?

Derek means "ruler of the people" (Germanic origin). Russell means "red-haired, little red one" (Old French origin).

Are Derek and Russell boy or girl names?

Derek is primarily a boy name. Russell is primarily a boy name.