Well then, now you know what the name Erik means, is it seriously the best name to choose for your newborn? Thinking up a name for your infant is maybe the most life-changing decision you will make, and you could spend weeks, or even months, wondering whether Erik is the right name to give your infant. As you have already read, Erik is African-American in origin, and so you should consider whether this African-American name is desirable for your child - if you have strong connections with African-American culture, then choosing a unique African-American name for your baby is unquestionably suitable. On the other hand, if you have no connection, then you might want to weigh up the negative side of presenting your child with a name that clashes with your own culture and may well cause problems in kindergarten, school and even at work. Picking a unique African-American first name for your baby may affect them positvely or negatively - so if you are not sure, then choosing a popular name for your infant may well be a far better option in the long run.