Derek vs Kade

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Derek

Boy #258 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"ruler of the people"

Origin: Germanic

Cultural Roots

English American Dutch German

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#258
Total SSA Count
1,355
Syllables
2
Formality
Moderate
Nicknames
Dere, Rick

Playground Safety Score

✓ All Clear
Full profile for Derek →

Popularity Comparison

Derek Rank #258
Kade Rank #346

Derek is more popular, ranked #258 vs #346 for Kade.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

Derek ___

  • Derek James
  • Derek Lee
  • Derek Michael
  • Derek Thomas
  • Derek Allen
  • Derek Scott

Kade ___

  • Kade Thomas
  • Kade Owen
  • Kade Elliot
  • Kade Hunter
  • Kade James
  • Kade River

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose Derek

Kyle Brandon Ashley Megan Chad

If you choose Kade

Chase Blake Brynn Sloane Reid

Which Name Fits Your Family?

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1. Which style feels more like your family?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Derek or Kade more popular?

Derek is more popular, ranked #258 compared to Kade at #346 in the United States.

What do Derek and Kade mean?

Derek means "ruler of the people" (Germanic origin). Kade means "round, barrel-maker" (Old English origin).

Are Derek and Kade boy or girl names?

Derek is primarily a boy name. Kade is primarily a boy name.

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← Full profile: Derek ← Full profile: Kade Browse all baby names