Nikolay

Nikolay is the Russian and Bulgarian form of Nicholas, derived from the ancient Greek name Nikolaos, composed of the elements nike, meaning victory, and laos, meaning people, giving the overall sense of victory of the people. The name was widely popularized in the Eastern Orthodox world through Saint Nicholas of Myra, a fourth-century bishop venerated as a patron of children, sailors, and merchants. Several Russian tsars bore the name, including Nicholas I and Nicholas II, the last emperor of Russia. Closely related forms include Nikolai, Nikolas, Nikolaas, and the Anglicized Nicholas.