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Nicholas Boy

Popularity: #115 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationNIK-uh-lus / /ˈnɪk.ə.ləs/

Greek; Latin

Meaning

Greek: victory of the people; Latin: victorious people

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Nicholas originates from the Greek name Νικόλαος (Nikolaos), which is composed of the elements 'nike,' meaning 'victory,' and 'laos,' meaning 'people.' This etymological combination can be interpreted as 'victory of the people' or 'people's champion.' The name was adopted into Latin as Nicolaus and subsequently entered Old French as Nicolas before being incorporated into Middle English, where it became established as Nicholas.

Historically, the name Nicholas is most famously associated with Saint Nicholas of Myra, a 4th-century bishop known for his generosity and miracles. His life and deeds were recorded in various hagiographies, and he became a prominent figure in Christian tradition. His feast day is celebrated on December 6, and he is often regarded as the inspiration for the modern figure of Santa Claus. The veneration of Saint Nicholas spread throughout Europe, particularly during the Middle Ages, leading to the establishment of numerous churches and institutions in his honor.

The name Nicholas has maintained cultural resonance across various societies, often symbolizing generosity and kindness. It has been borne by numerous notable historical figures, including kings and scholars, which further solidified its significance. In literature, the name appears in works such as Charles Dickens' "Nicholas Nickleby," published in the 19th century, which contributed to the name's enduring legacy. A common diminutive form of Nicholas is Nick, which has also been widely used in various cultures. Overall, the name Nicholas carries a rich historical and cultural heritage that reflects its linguistic roots and the impact of its most notable bearers.

Trend Summary

Nicholas has consistently been a popular name in the United States, often ranking within the top 100 names for boys.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Nick
  • Nico
  • Nicolai

International Variants

  • Nicolás (Spanish)
  • Nicolas (French)
  • Nikola (Slavic)
  • Nicola (Italian)

Famous people named Nicholas

Nicholas Cage is an actor best known for Leaving Las Vegas, National Treasure, and Adaptation.

Nicholas Sparks is an author best known for The Notebook, A Walk to Remember, and Dear John.

Nicholas Hoult is an actor best known for About a Boy, Mad Max: Fury Road, and The Favourite.

Nicholas Braun is an actor best known for Succession, Zola, and The Perks of Being a Wallflower.

Nicholas Kristof is a journalist best known for his work with The New York Times and for co-authoring Half the Sky.

Nicholas Meyer is a director and writer best known for Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan, Time After Time, and The Seven-Per-Cent Solution.

Nicholas Lindhurst is an actor best known for Only Fools and Horses, Goodnight Sweetheart, and The Two of Us.

Nicholas Stoller is a director and writer best known for Forgetting Sarah Marshall, Neighbors, and The Muppets.

Nicholas Sparks is a novelist best known for The Notebook, Message in a Bottle, and The Lucky One.

Fictional characters named Nicholas

Nicholas Nickleby is a fictional character from the novel Nicholas Nickleby by Charles Dickens. He is a young man who struggles to support his family after the death of his father, facing various challenges and adventures along the way.

Nicholas Angel is a fictional character from the film Hot Fuzz. He is a dedicated police officer who uncovers a dark conspiracy in a seemingly peaceful village.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Nicholas was first seen in the United States in 1880. Nicholas has ranked as high as #6 nationally, which occurred in 1995, and has been most popular in California, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, and Ohio. In the past 5 years the name Nicholas has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Nicholas (2024)

StateBirthsShare
CA 414
15%
NY 333
12%
TX 326
12%
FL 213
8%
PA 172
6%
IL 124
4%
OH 85
3%
VA 81
3%
GA 72
3%
AZ 68
2%
MI 63
2%
MA 63
2%
NC 63
2%
MD 58
2%
CT 53
2%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
188073
188156
188266
188371
188469
188566
188685
188779
188897
188968
189078
189178
189295
189389
189477
189584
1896106
189787
189894
189969
190095
190188
1902112
190390
1904102
1905112
1906144
1907161
1908226
1909204
1910235
1911308
1912676
1913796
19141,151
19151,427
19161,419
19171,412
19181,488
19191,321
19201,354
19211,553
19221,414
19231,468
19241,488
19251,332
19261,319
19271,272
19281,216
19291,192
19301,131
19311,103
1932925
1933888
1934873
1935911
1936929
1937935
1938989
19391,032
19401,102
19411,212
19421,500
19431,434
19441,362
19451,356
19461,675
19471,935
19481,929
19491,998
19502,176
19512,388
19522,343
19532,359
19542,368
19552,186
19562,212
19572,197
19582,189
19592,196
19602,299
19612,076
19622,145
19632,130
19642,070
19652,068
19662,139
19672,288
19682,551
19692,577
19702,702
19712,609
19722,844
19733,154
19743,218
19753,318
19763,465
19776,073
197816,343
197921,343
198021,025
198119,777
198219,642
198319,894
198421,018
198522,384
198622,800
198723,249
198825,300
198928,231
199027,914
199127,357
199227,761
199328,115
199427,767
199529,161
199627,722
199727,257
199826,633
199925,639
200024,654
200122,848
200221,390
200319,696
200418,519
200517,076
200615,674
200714,362
200812,530
200910,855
20109,652
20118,601
20127,741
20137,147
20146,779
20156,259
20165,763
20175,367
20184,843
20194,640
20204,065
20213,862
20223,639
20233,257
20243,025