Declining since 2011, #6,803 for boys today.
Popularity of Nicholai since 1962
Babies named Nicholai per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 2010, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Nicholai's real moment was 2017.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1960s | 5 |
| 1970s | 17 |
| 1980s | 95 |
| 1990s | 120 |
| 2000s | 300 |
| 2010s | 392 |
| 2020s | 95 |
Meaning & origin
Nicholai, a Russian variant of Nicholas, has maintained steady but modest usage in the United States since first appearing in records in 1962. As of 2025, it ranks 6,803, with about 1 in 142,340 newborn boys receiving the name. Its peak year was 2017, but since 2011 its trajectory has been falling, reflecting a broader shift away from traditional Slavic forms. Despite its low national rank, Nicholai offers a distinctive alternative to the ubiquitous Nicholas, carrying a strong etymological meaning of 'victory of the people.' While no U.S. state accounts for a disproportionate share of its use, the name enjoys occasional favor in communities with Russian heritage. Its falling trajectory suggests it will remain an uncommon choice, appealing to parents seeking a name with deep historical roots and a familiar yet uncommon sound.
Nicholai is a Russian form of Nicholas, derived from the Greek name Nikolaos, composed of nike (victory) and laos (people). The name has been widespread in Eastern Europe, particularly in Russia, where it was favored by nobility and saints. It remains a common name in Slavic countries and among diaspora communities.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Nick, Nicky, Kolya
Sibling names for Nicholai
Names that share Nicholai's style, for a brother or sister.
