Comprehensive Guide on the Name “Cedric”

Origin and Historical Background

The name Cedric is of Old English origin, commonly believed to be invented by Sir Walter Scott for the character Cedric of Rotherwood in his 1819 novel “Ivanhoe.” While some speculate that Scott derived the name from the Old English name Cerdic, which was borne by the first king of Wessex, others propose that it might have roots in the Welsh name Cedrych, meaning “pattern of bounty.”

Meaning and Cultural Significance

Cedric signifies “Kind,” making it a name often associated with gentleness, quietness, serenity, peacefulness, and compassion. The name carries a soft dignity and invokes a touch of timeless nobility and warmth. Cedric often resonates with feelings of kindness and gentleness, making it an endearing choice for a boy’s name.

Famous Historical Figures with the Name Cedric

1. Cedric the Entertainer (Born: 1964)

• Historical Era: Contemporary
• Key Contributions: Renowned comedian, actor, and television host, Cedric the Entertainer has been a significant figure in modern entertainment. He gained prominence through his work on shows like “The Steve Harvey Show” and films such as “Barbershop.”
• Cultural Impact: Cedric the Entertainer holds a lasting influence in the realm of comedy and television, bringing humor and joy to countless audiences.

2. Cedric Gibbons (Born: 1893 – 1960)

• Historical Era: Twentieth Century
• Key Contributions: An esteemed art director with MGM, Cedric Gibbons played a crucial role in designing Hollywood films’ iconic looks from the 1920s to the 1950s. He is credited with the design of the Oscar statuette itself.
• Cultural Impact: Gibbons’ work contributed to the visual style and culture of American cinema during its golden age, making an indelible mark on film history.

Usage Over Time

The name Cedric saw a rise in popularity during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, largely attributed to characters in literature and later cinema. It retains a steady usage, resonating with parents seeking a timeless and gentle name. According to the Social Security Administration’s database, Cedric experienced periods of increased popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly through the 1960s and 1970s.

Pronunciation Guide

Cedric is phonetically pronounced as SED-rik. The emphasis is on the first syllable, with the ‘e’ pronounced as in ‘bed’ and a soft ‘d’ sound leading into the ‘r’.

Biblical Context

There is no direct reference to the name Cedric in the Bible. However, its meanings and the qualities it evokes—kindness, compassion, and peace—are deeply valued in Biblical teachings and align with the fruits of the Spirit as described in Galatians 5:22-23.

Additional Unique Information

Numerology

Cedric is associated with the numerology number 7, which symbolizes introspection, inner wisdom, and spiritual awakening.

Variations

Cedrik, Sedrick, Cédric (French)

Cultural Variants

In France and similarly, Cédric remains prevalent, maintaining its unique charm across cultures.

Popularity Information

Cedric has appeared intermittently on the Social Security Administration’s lists of popular names in the latter half of the 20th century and into the 21st century. It witnessed moderate popularity peaks around the 1970s but has since maintained a modest but steady presence.

Conclusion

Cedric, meaning “Kind,” is a name that embodies gentleness and compassion, qualities highly cherished by many. With its rich historical background and timeless appeal, Cedric makes a lovely and thoughtful choice for any boy.