Eric vs Steven

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
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Steven

Boy #269 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"crown, wreath"

Origin: Greek

Cultural Roots

English American Dutch

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#269
Total SSA Count
1,284
Syllables
2
Formality
Moderate
Nicknames
Steve, Stevie

Playground Safety Score

✓ All Clear
Full profile for Steven →

Popularity Comparison

Eric Rank #252
Steven Rank #269

Eric is more popular, ranked #252 vs #269 for Steven.

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

Steven ___

  • Steven James
  • Steven Michael
  • Steven Allen
  • Steven Paul
  • Steven Ray
  • Steven Anthony

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose Eric

Kevin Brian Karen Lisa Mark

If you choose Steven

Kevin Brian Michelle Karen Jennifer

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 Steven more popular?

Eric is more popular, ranked #252 compared to Steven at #269 in the United States.

What do Eric and Steven mean?

Eric means "ever powerful" (Old Norse origin). Steven means "crown, wreath" (Greek origin).

Are Eric and Steven boy or girl names?

Eric is primarily a boy name. Steven is primarily a boy name.

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