Nicole

Nicole is the French feminine form of Nicolas, which derives from the ancient Greek name Nikolaos, composed of the elements nikē, meaning victory, and laos, meaning people, giving the overall sense of victory of the people. The name spread widely across Europe through the veneration of Saint Nicholas, the fourth-century bishop of Myra whose legendary generosity made him one of the most popular saints in both Eastern and Western Christianity. Nicole rose to broad international use during the twentieth century, particularly in English-speaking countries. Related forms include Nicola, Nicolette, Nikola, and the masculine Nicolas and Nicholas.