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Name Origin

Erik is a Scandinavian masculine given name, derived from the Old Norse name Eirikr. Eirikr is composed of two elements: 'eirr' meaning 'everlasting' or 'sole ruler', and 'ríkr' meaning 'ruler' or 'king'. Therefore, Erik traditionally means 'everlasting ruler', 'eternal king', or 'sole ruler'.

scandinaviannorsemasculineeverlastingrulerkingtraditionalpowerful

Famous People

Erik the Red (950-1003)

Viking explorer and chieftain

  • Founded the first Norse settlement in Greenland
  • Played a key role in Norse exploration of North America

Erik Erikson (1902-1994)

Psychologist and psychoanalyst

  • Developed the theory of psychosocial development
  • Influential figure in humanistic psychology

Erik Estrada (1939-)

Actor

  • Known for his role as Officer Frank Poncherello in the television series 'CHiPs'

Erik Spoelstra (1970-)

Basketball coach

  • Head coach of the Miami Heat
  • Won two NBA championships as head coach

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