Ulrica

Meaning of Ulrica

Ulrica derives from the Old High German elements ulf, denoting “wolf,” and rīhhi, signifying “power” or “ruler,” thus etymologically embodying a “wolf ruler” or “prosperous sovereign.” It entered Scandinavian—and subsequently Anglo-American—onomastics principally through Swedish usage (pronounced ool-REE-kah, /uˈlriːka/) and has historically been borne by figures of aristocratic and ecclesiastical prominence, most notably Queen Ulrika Eleonora of Sweden (1688–1741). In the United States, its incidence has remained both minimal and remarkably consistent, with annual occurrences of five to eight newborns and Social Security Administration rankings oscillating between 739 and 791 over the period 1965–1979. This sustained low-frequency usage underscores Ulrica’s appeal to parents seeking a name of rigorous Germanic pedigree, stately resonance and enduring distinctiveness.

Pronunciation

Swedish

• Pronunced as ool-REE-kah (/uˈlriːka/)

• Ulla
• Ulrika
• Ulrike
• Uli
• Ulani