Declining since 1986, #3,036 for boys today.
Popularity of Rick since 1919
Babies named Rick per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1910s | 6 |
| 1920s | 121 |
| 1930s | 269 |
| 1940s | 5,972 |
| 1950s | 34,371 |
| 1960s | 25,717 |
| 1970s | 6,155 |
| 1980s | 4,257 |
| 1990s | 2,566 |
| 2000s | 1,336 |
| 2010s | 790 |
| 2020s | 269 |
Meaning & origin
Rick began as a medieval nickname for Richard and emerged as a standalone name in the early 20th century, first recorded in U.S. data in 1919. Its peak came in 1958, when it was a top choice for American parents. Since 1986, the name has steadily declined in use, reflecting a broader trend away from short, classic masculine nicknames as given names. California has historically been the top state for the name, and it remains most familiar as a friendly, no-nonsense choice. Today, while less common, Rick retains a sense of approachable masculinity and mid-century charm.
Rick originated as a medieval short form of Richard, a name of Germanic origin composed of the elements 'ric' (power, ruler) and 'hard' (brave, hardy). It became an independent given name in the 20th century, particularly popular in English-speaking countries. The name's popularity peaked in the mid-20th century, often associated with the archetypal 'everyman' figure.
Where Rick is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Ricky, Rickie
Variants: Ric
Sibling names for Rick
Names that share Rick's style, for a brother or sister.
Names like Rick
Names whose popularity has moved with Rick's over the last 50 years.
