Walter vs Derek

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Walter

Boy #271 Most Popular 2 Syllables

"ruler of the army"

Origin: Old High German

English German Scandinavian Dutch

✓ All Clear

Boy #258 Most Popular 2 Syllables

"ruler of the people"

Origin: Germanic

English American Dutch German

✓ All Clear

Walter Rank #271

Derek Rank #258

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

Is Walter or Derek more popular?

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

What do Walter and Derek mean?

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

Are Walter and Derek boy or girl names?

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