Nicholas

Nicholas is an English given name derived from the ancient Greek Nikolaos, composed of the elements nikē, meaning victory, and laos, meaning people, together conveying the sense of victory of the people. The name gained enormous popularity throughout medieval Europe largely through the veneration of Saint Nicholas of Myra, a fourth-century bishop whose legendary generosity gave rise to the figure of Santa Claus. It was further spread by the Norman conquest of England and by several popes and rulers who bore the name. Closely related forms include Nicolas, Nikolaus, Nikolai, Nikola, and Nicola, along with the diminutives Nick and Colin.