Rekard: a male name of Germanic origin meaning "This name derives from the Low German “Ricohard,” composed of two elements “*rīkijaz” (kingly, royal, noble, mighty, distinguished, powerful, rich) plus “*harduz / *hardu-” (hard, strong, brave, fearless, powerful)".It derives from the Germanic word "*rīkijaz *harduz / *hardu- > RICOHARD".
In Germanic tradition, Rekard holds special significance as a masculine name representing This name derives from the Low German “Ricohard,” composed of two elements “*rīkijaz” (kingly, royal, noble, mighty, distinguished, powerful, rich) plus “*harduz / *hardu-” (hard, strong, brave, fearless, powerful). This name has been cherished across generations, carrying with it the wisdom and heritage of Germanic culture. Its enduring popularity speaks to its universal resonance.
Quick Facts About Rekard
Quick facts about Rekard
Origin
Germanic
Gender
Boy name
Popularity
Moderately popular
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
This name derives from the Low German “Ricohard,” composed of two elements “*rīkijaz” (kingly, royal, noble, mighty, distinguished, powerful, rich) plus “*harduz / *hardu-” (hard, strong, brave, fearless, powerful). In turn, the name means “power and brave commander, powerful leader.” 1) Richard I (the Lionheart) was King of England from 6 July 1189 until his death. He also ruled as Duke of Normandy (as Richard IV), Duke of Aquitaine, Duke of Gascony, Lord of Cyprus, Count of Anjou, Count of Maine, Count of Nantes, and Overlord of Brittany at various times during the same period. 2) Richard of Chichester is a Saint (canonized in 1262) who was Bishop of Chichester. His original shrine in Chichester cathedral was a richly-decorated center of pilgrimage, which was destroyed in 1538.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
*rīkijaz *harduz / *hardu- > RICOHARD
How to Pronounce Rekard
Rekard is pronounced /ˈrɛkɑrd/(English)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Rek-ard
Say it like: "REHKAHRD"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
Usage & Popularity
Rekard is predominantly used in swedish speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.
swedish
Name Relationships
Rekard is a variant form of Rikard, developed through regional pronunciation differences and linguistic evolution. This variation preserves the essential meaning while offering a unique sound.
Rekard means "This name derives from the Low German “Ricohard,” composed of two elements “*rīkijaz” (kingly, royal, noble, mighty, distinguished, powerful, rich) plus “*harduz / *hardu-” (hard, strong, brave, fearless, powerful). In turn, the name means “power and brave commander, powerful leader.” 1) Richard I (the Lionheart) was King of England from 6 July 1189 until his death. He also ruled as Duke of Normandy (as Richard IV), Duke of Aquitaine, Duke of Gascony, Lord of Cyprus, Count of Anjou, Count of Maine, Count of Nantes, and Overlord of Brittany at various times during the same period. 2) Richard of Chichester is a Saint (canonized in 1262) who was Bishop of Chichester. His original shrine in Chichester cathedral was a richly-decorated center of pilgrimage, which was destroyed in 1538.". The name comes from *rīkijaz *harduz / *hardu- > RICOHARD. This germanic name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Rekard for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Low German “Ricohard,” composed of two elements “*rīkijaz” (kingly, royal, noble, mighty, distinguished, powerful, rich) plus “*harduz / *hardu-” (hard, strong, brave, fearless, powerful). In turn, the name means “power and brave commander, powerful leader.” 1) Richard I (the Lionheart) was King of England from 6 July 1189 until his death. He also ruled as Duke of Normandy (as Richard IV), Duke of Aquitaine, Duke of Gascony, Lord of Cyprus, Count of Anjou, Count of Maine, Count of Nantes, and Overlord of Brittany at various times during the same period. 2) Richard of Chichester is a Saint (canonized in 1262) who was Bishop of Chichester. His original shrine in Chichester cathedral was a richly-decorated center of pilgrimage, which was destroyed in 1538." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Rekard's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like RELIGION (BISHOPS) / RELIGION (SAINTS), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Rekard?
Rekard is a germanic name. The name traces back to *rīkijaz *harduz / *hardu- > RICOHARD. The name remains closely tied to swedish naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The germanic meaning "This name derives from the Low German “Ricohard,” composed of two elements “*rīkijaz” (kingly, royal, noble, mighty, distinguished, powerful, rich) plus “*harduz / *hardu-” (hard, strong, brave, fearless, powerful). In turn, the name means “power and brave commander, powerful leader.” 1) Richard I (the Lionheart) was King of England from 6 July 1189 until his death. He also ruled as Duke of Normandy (as Richard IV), Duke of Aquitaine, Duke of Gascony, Lord of Cyprus, Count of Anjou, Count of Maine, Count of Nantes, and Overlord of Brittany at various times during the same period. 2) Richard of Chichester is a Saint (canonized in 1262) who was Bishop of Chichester. His original shrine in Chichester cathedral was a richly-decorated center of pilgrimage, which was destroyed in 1538." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared. Rekard developed as a form of Rikard, adapting over time while keeping its connection to the original name.
Is Rekard a boy or girl name?
Rekard is a boy's name. The name has been used for boys across many generations, maintaining its masculine character through different eras and cultures. In germanic tradition, Rekard has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Low German “Ricohard,” composed of two elements “*rīkijaz” (kingly, royal, noble, mighty, distinguished, powerful, rich) plus “*harduz / *hardu-” (hard, strong, brave, fearless, powerful). In turn, the name means “power and brave commander, powerful leader.” 1) Richard I (the Lionheart) was King of England from 6 July 1189 until his death. He also ruled as Duke of Normandy (as Richard IV), Duke of Aquitaine, Duke of Gascony, Lord of Cyprus, Count of Anjou, Count of Maine, Count of Nantes, and Overlord of Brittany at various times during the same period. 2) Richard of Chichester is a Saint (canonized in 1262) who was Bishop of Chichester. His original shrine in Chichester cathedral was a richly-decorated center of pilgrimage, which was destroyed in 1538." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Rekard?
Rekard is pronounced "/ˈrɛkɑrd/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Rekard is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with germanic names, listening to a native speaker say Rekard can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Rekard?
Rekard is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Rekard offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Rekard's popularity may vary between germanic communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Low German “Ricohard,” composed of two elements “*rīkijaz” (kingly, royal, noble, mighty, distinguished, powerful, rich) plus “*harduz / *hardu-” (hard, strong, brave, fearless, powerful). In turn, the name means “power and brave commander, powerful leader.” 1) Richard I (the Lionheart) was King of England from 6 July 1189 until his death. He also ruled as Duke of Normandy (as Richard IV), Duke of Aquitaine, Duke of Gascony, Lord of Cyprus, Count of Anjou, Count of Maine, Count of Nantes, and Overlord of Brittany at various times during the same period. 2) Richard of Chichester is a Saint (canonized in 1262) who was Bishop of Chichester. His original shrine in Chichester cathedral was a richly-decorated center of pilgrimage, which was destroyed in 1538." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Rekard holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
What are variations of the name Rekard?
Rekard is a form of Rikard. Over time, Rikard developed into several variations, with Rekard emerging as a distinct form used in certain regions or languages. In germanic tradition, these variations allow the core name to work across different contexts while maintaining its character. All variations preserve the meaning "This name derives from the Low German “Ricohard,” composed of two elements “*rīkijaz” (kingly, royal, noble, mighty, distinguished, powerful, rich) plus “*harduz / *hardu-” (hard, strong, brave, fearless, powerful). In turn, the name means “power and brave commander, powerful leader.” 1) Richard I (the Lionheart) was King of England from 6 July 1189 until his death. He also ruled as Duke of Normandy (as Richard IV), Duke of Aquitaine, Duke of Gascony, Lord of Cyprus, Count of Anjou, Count of Maine, Count of Nantes, and Overlord of Brittany at various times during the same period. 2) Richard of Chichester is a Saint (canonized in 1262) who was Bishop of Chichester. His original shrine in Chichester cathedral was a richly-decorated center of pilgrimage, which was destroyed in 1538.", so choosing between them comes down to sound preference and cultural fit rather than different meanings. Parents drawn to Rekard might also consider these related forms, especially if they want options for siblings or prefer a more traditional or modern feel. In swedish, Rekard may be more or less common than its variations, depending on local naming customs.
Where is the name Rekard commonly used?
Rekard is used primarily in swedish naming traditions. Though germanic in origin, Rekard found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Low German “Ricohard,” composed of two elements “*rīkijaz” (kingly, royal, noble, mighty, distinguished, powerful, rich) plus “*harduz / *hardu-” (hard, strong, brave, fearless, powerful). In turn, the name means “power and brave commander, powerful leader.” 1) Richard I (the Lionheart) was King of England from 6 July 1189 until his death. He also ruled as Duke of Normandy (as Richard IV), Duke of Aquitaine, Duke of Gascony, Lord of Cyprus, Count of Anjou, Count of Maine, Count of Nantes, and Overlord of Brittany at various times during the same period. 2) Richard of Chichester is a Saint (canonized in 1262) who was Bishop of Chichester. His original shrine in Chichester cathedral was a richly-decorated center of pilgrimage, which was destroyed in 1538." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Rekard into their naming traditions. A child named Rekard will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Rekard is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Rekard?
Rekard carries associations with RELIGION (BISHOPS) / RELIGION (SAINTS). These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Low German “Ricohard,” composed of two elements “*rīkijaz” (kingly, royal, noble, mighty, distinguished, powerful, rich) plus “*harduz / *hardu-” (hard, strong, brave, fearless, powerful). In turn, the name means “power and brave commander, powerful leader.” 1) Richard I (the Lionheart) was King of England from 6 July 1189 until his death. He also ruled as Duke of Normandy (as Richard IV), Duke of Aquitaine, Duke of Gascony, Lord of Cyprus, Count of Anjou, Count of Maine, Count of Nantes, and Overlord of Brittany at various times during the same period. 2) Richard of Chichester is a Saint (canonized in 1262) who was Bishop of Chichester. His original shrine in Chichester cathedral was a richly-decorated center of pilgrimage, which was destroyed in 1538." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In germanic culture, where Rekard originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Rekard sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Rekard often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In swedish communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.