Derek vs Xander

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Derek

Boy #258 Most Popular 2 Syllables

"ruler of the people"

Origin: Germanic

English American Dutch German

✓ All Clear

Boy #216 Most Popular 2 Syllables

"defender of the people"

Origin: Greek

English Dutch Greek

✓ All Clear

Derek Rank #258

Xander Rank #216

Xander is more popular, ranked #216 vs #258 for Derek.

Is Derek or Xander more popular?

Xander is more popular, ranked #216 compared to Derek at #258 in the United States.

What do Derek and Xander mean?

Derek means "ruler of the people" (Germanic origin). Xander means "defender of the people" (Greek origin).

Are Derek and Xander boy or girl names?

Derek is primarily a boy name. Xander is primarily a boy name.