Eddy

Eddy is a familiar form of Edward, an English name built from older elements associated with wealth and guarding. Its traditional meaning is therefore “wealthy guardian.” Eddy can preserve that connection as a nickname or serve as the complete given name, without requiring Edward on a birth certificate.

Eddie is the closest spelling comparison. The y ending also coincides with the ordinary English word for a swirling current, but that word is not the origin of every person named Eddy. Singer Celine Dion chose Eddy for a son in honor of producer Eddy Marnay, an example of how a particular namesake can supply the most personal explanation.