Meaning, origin, history
Erika is a feminine given name of German origin. It is derived from the Old Norse female name Eiríkr, which was originally used as both a male and female name. The name Eiríkr means "eternally powerful" or "always powerful."
The name Erika gained popularity in the late 19th century, when it began to be used more frequently as a feminine given name. It has since become popular in several countries around the world, including Germany, Sweden, Norway, and the United States.
Erika is often associated with the literary character Erika von Kessler, who appears in the novella "Wings of Desire" by German author Peter Handke. The character was also portrayed on film by Bruno Ganz in the 1987 film "Wings of Desire," directed by Wim Wenders.
Overall, Erika is a strong and powerful name with a rich history and international appeal. Its meaning makes it an appealing choice for parents looking for a meaningful and memorable name for their daughter.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Erika since 1880
Total births
548
Total since 1880
Peak year
1989
42 births
in 2004
8
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years