Ric is a short, punchy masculine name that typically serves as a diminutive of Richard, though it occasionally stands alone as an independent given name. Richard comes from Germanic elements meaning 'powerful' or 'strong' and 'ruler,' literally translating to 'strong ruler' or 'brave power.' This abbreviated form gained some usage in the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1960s and 70s, reflecting the trend toward shorter, more casual names. Ric carries the powerful heritage of its parent name while offering a more modern, streamlined option. Notable bearers include musicians like Ric Ocasek of The Cars, which has helped maintain the name's contemporary appeal despite its ancient roots.

Bobbsey Twins-era nickname name that could find new life via Nan, heroine of The Nanny Diaries. Nan was also the nickname of Annabel St George, the protagonist of Edith Wharton's novel "The Buccaneers".

There was an eighties cartoon queen named Jem (& The Holograms), and this is as likely to be a full name as a short form – deriving from Jemma, Jemima or Jameela.

A unisex Hebrew name often found in combination with others, as in Tal-El and Tal-Or.