Nicole

Nicole is the French feminine form of Nicholas, derived from the 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 during the medieval period through devotion to Saint Nicholas of Myra, the fourth-century bishop whose legend inspired the figure of Santa Claus. Nicole gained particular popularity in English-speaking countries during the twentieth century, partly through French cultural influence. Related forms include Nicola, Nicolette, Nikola, and the masculine Nicholas.