Niels

Niels is the Danish and Dutch form of Nicholas, 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 medieval Europe through the veneration of Saint Nicholas of Myra, a fourth-century bishop whose legendary generosity inspired enduring popular devotion. Niels has been borne by several Danish kings and scientists, most notably the physicist Niels Bohr. Related forms include Nils in Swedish and Norwegian, Klaus and Nikolaas in Dutch, and Nikolaj in Danish.