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Nicolas Boy

Popularity: #177 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationNIK-oh-luhs / ˈnɪk.ə.ləs

Greek; Latin; French

Meaning

Victory of the people (Greek); people's victory (Latin)

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Nicolas has its roots in the Greek name Νικόλαος (Nikolaos), which is composed of the elements ‘nike’ meaning ‘victory’ and ‘laos’ meaning ‘people’. This etymological foundation conveys the meaning ‘victory of the people’. The name was adopted into Latin as Nicolaus and subsequently made its way into Old French as Nicolas before entering the English language. The transition through these languages reflects the broader historical movements of culture and language in Europe, particularly during the Middle Ages when Greek and Latin were prominent in scholarly and religious contexts.

Historically, the name Nicolas is most famously associated with Saint Nicholas of Myra, a 4th-century bishop known for his generosity and later became the inspiration for the modern figure of Santa Claus. His feast day is celebrated on December 6, and he is recognized as the patron saint of children, sailors, and merchants, among others. The veneration of Saint Nicholas spread throughout Europe, particularly during the medieval period, leading to the establishment of numerous churches and institutions in his honor. The name gained further prominence through various translations of the Bible and religious texts, where it appeared in Latin and later in vernacular languages.

Culturally, Nicolas has been associated with themes of generosity, kindness, and protection, which resonate deeply in various traditions. The name has been borne by numerous historical figures, including kings and scholars, contributing to its enduring legacy. Variants of the name, such as Nick or Nico, have also emerged, reflecting the name's adaptability across different cultures and languages. The historical significance of Nicolas, particularly through its association with Saint Nicholas, has ensured its continued relevance in various cultural contexts.

Trend Summary

Nicolas has seen fluctuating popularity in the U.S., peaking in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Nicholas
  • Nick
  • Nico

International Variants

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

Famous people named Nicolas

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

Nicolas Sarkozy is a former U.S. President best known for his leadership during the financial crisis, the G20 summit, and his economic reforms.

Nicolas Roeg is a director best known for The Man Who Fell to Earth, Don't Look Now, and Performance.

Nicolas Jaar is a musician and producer best known for Space Is Only Noise, Pomegranates, and his work with Darkside.

Nicolas Winding Refn is a director best known for Drive, Only God Forgives, and The Neon Demon.

Nicolas Ghesquière is a fashion designer best known for his work with Balenciaga and Louis Vuitton.

Fictional characters named Nicolas

Nicolas is a fictional character from the film The Sorcerer's Apprentice. He is a young apprentice who learns the ways of magic under the tutelage of a powerful sorcerer.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Nicolas was first seen in the United States in 1882. Nicolas has ranked as high as #245 nationally, which occurred in 2003, and has been most popular in California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Illinois. In the past 5 years the name Nicolas has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Nicolas (2024)

StateBirthsShare
CA 407
22%
TX 399
21%
FL 166
9%
NY 122
7%
IL 96
5%
GA 59
3%
AZ 54
3%
NC 46
2%
MA 45
2%
PA 38
2%
VA 33
2%
CT 33
2%
MD 32
2%
WA 29
2%
MI 22
1%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18825
18859
18867
18895
18947
18966
18986
19005
19049
19057
19076
190812
190912
191014
19119
191222
191332
191443
191557
191627
191764
191845
191954
192070
192174
192274
192369
192496
192583
192661
192765
192878
192979
193076
193170
193269
193349
193457
193557
193646
193755
193854
193934
194060
194156
194258
194362
194461
194569
194679
194788
194866
194995
195093
1951111
1952104
1953102
1954106
195590
1956102
1957101
1958111
1959122
1960134
1961108
1962114
1963120
1964131
1965139
1966123
1967172
1968169
1969179
1970222
1971212
1972205
1973250
1974226
1975309
1976307
1977436
1978799
1979906
1980848
1981896
1982894
1983945
1984959
19851,000
1986974
19871,021
19881,204
19891,530
19901,643
19911,589
19921,798
19931,819
19941,953
19952,006
19962,298
19972,430
19982,920
19992,763
20002,846
20012,824
20022,810
20033,003
20042,872
20052,966
20062,939
20072,833
20082,683
20092,490
20102,392
20112,240
20122,131
20132,129
20142,077
20151,998
20162,085
20171,918
20182,097
20192,145
20201,891
20212,008
20221,989
20231,897
20241,992