Origin and Meaning of Rich

Meaning & Origin

Brave ruler; powerful leader

Origin: Old High German - Derived from the Old High German name 'Ricoh' or 'Richard', which is composed of the elements 'ric' meaning 'power' or 'ruler' and 'hard' meaning 'brave' or 'strong'.

Interesting Facts

  • Rich is often considered a diminutive form of the name Richard, and has gained popularity as a standalone name in modern contexts.
  • While primarily used in English-speaking countries, variations of the name Rich exist in other cultures, often linked to the name Richard.
  • Notable bearers of the name include Rich Little, a Canadian-American impressionist and comedian, and Rich Rodriguez, an American football coach.
  • The name Rich saw a decline in popularity from the 1980s onward but remains a recognizable and appreciated name.
  • Related names and variations include Richard, Rick, and Dick, all of which share a common root.