Derek vs Karson

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
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Karson

Boy #398 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"son of marsh-dwellers"

Origin: Old Norse/English

Cultural Roots

American English Scandinavian

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#398
Total SSA Count
813
Syllables
2
Formality
Moderate
Nicknames
Kars, Kar

Playground Safety Score

✓ All Clear
Full profile for Karson →

Popularity Comparison

Derek Rank #258
Karson Rank #398

Derek is more popular, ranked #258 vs #398 for Karson.

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

Karson ___

  • Karson James
  • Karson Lee
  • Karson Michael
  • Karson Thomas
  • Karson Reid
  • Karson Blake

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose Derek

Kyle Brandon Ashley Megan Chad

If you choose Karson

Kaden Layla Jaxon Piper Ryker

Which Name Fits Your Family?

Answer 3 quick questions and we'll help you decide.

1. Which style feels more like your family?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Derek or Karson more popular?

Derek is more popular, ranked #258 compared to Karson at #398 in the United States.

What do Derek and Karson mean?

Derek means "ruler of the people" (Germanic origin). Karson means "son of marsh-dwellers" (Old Norse/English origin).

Are Derek and Karson boy or girl names?

Derek is primarily a boy name. Karson is primarily a boy name.

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