Eric vs Joshua

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Eric

Boy #252 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"ever powerful"

Origin: Old Norse

Cultural Roots

Scandinavian English German French American

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#252
Total SSA Count
1,402
Syllables
2
Formality
Moderate
Nicknames
Rick, Rico

Playground Safety Score

✓ All Clear
Full profile for Eric →

Popularity Comparison

Eric Rank #252
Joshua Rank #57

Joshua is more popular, ranked #57 vs #252 for Eric.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

Eric ___

  • Eric James
  • Eric Thomas
  • Eric William
  • Eric Alexander
  • Eric Charles
  • Eric David

Joshua ___

  • Joshua Alexander
  • Joshua James
  • Joshua Michael
  • Joshua Thomas
  • Joshua David
  • Joshua Ryan

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose Eric

Kevin Brian Karen Lisa Mark

If you choose Joshua

Caleb Noah Hannah Abigail Elijah

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 Eric or Joshua more popular?

Joshua is more popular, ranked #57 compared to Eric at #252 in the United States.

What do Eric and Joshua mean?

Eric means "ever powerful" (Old Norse origin). Joshua means "may God deliver" (Hebrew origin).

Are Eric and Joshua boy or girl names?

Eric is primarily a boy name. Joshua is primarily a boy name.

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← Full profile: Eric ← Full profile: Joshua Browse all baby names