Derek vs Walter

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 #271 Most Popular 2 Syllables

"ruler of the army"

Origin: Old High German

English German Scandinavian Dutch

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Derek Rank #258

Walter Rank #271

Derek is more popular, ranked #258 vs #271 for Walter.

Is Derek or Walter more popular?

Derek is more popular, ranked #258 compared to Walter at #271 in the United States.

What do Derek and Walter mean?

Derek means "ruler of the people" (Germanic origin). Walter means "ruler of the army" (Old High German origin).

Are Derek and Walter boy or girl names?

Derek is primarily a boy name. Walter is primarily a boy name.