MallowbyNames

Nickolas

NIK-oh-lus · Victory of the people

2025 rank (boys)
#1,492
Babies named in 2025
118
Peak popularity
1998
2025 frequency
1 in 14,475 boys
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Declining since 1998

Declining since 1998, #1,492 for boys today.

Popularity of Nickolas since 1882

Babies named Nickolas per year in U.S. Social Security records.

3857711.2k192019602000Most births 1998Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
1880s30
1890s17
1900s66
1910s823
1920s1,302
1930s685
1940s768
1950s1,003
1960s910
1970s2,380
1980s7,237
1990s10,729
2000s9,012
2010s3,536
2020s858

Meaning & origin

Nickolas, a variant spelling of the classic Greek name Nicholas, offers a modern twist on a traditional favorite. While the original Nicholas has been a staple for centuries, the 'k' spelling gained traction in the late 20th century. Data from the Social Security Administration shows Nickolas first recorded in 1882, but it saw its peak popularity in 1998, when it ranked highest. Since then, its usage has been falling, reflecting broader trends away from traditional names. The name is most common in states like Washington, Pennsylvania, and New York. This spelling provides a distinctive option for parents seeking to stand out while maintaining a familiar sound.

Nickolas is a variant spelling of Nicholas, which derives from the Greek name Nikolaos, composed of 'nikē' (victory) and 'laos' (people). The name was popularized by Saint Nicholas, a 4th-century bishop known for his generosity, who became the model for Santa Claus. The variant spelling with a 'k' emerged in English-speaking countries as a modern alteration, particularly in the United States during the late 20th century.

Where Nickolas is most popular

Births per 100,000 boys by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.

2020s
Fewermore per 100k boystoo few births

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Nick, Nicky, Cole

Variants: Nicholas, Nicolas, Nikolas

Sibling names for Nickolas

Names that share Nickolas's style, for a brother or sister.

Names like Nickolas

Names whose popularity has moved with Nickolas's over the last 50 years.

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

N is for Nickolas, our favorite little boy.

N is for Nickolas…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Nickolas's letter becomes Nickolas's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Nickolas's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Nickolas mean?
Nickolas means 'victory of the people,' derived from the Greek elements 'nikē' (victory) and 'laos' (people).
How popular is the name Nickolas currently?
As of 2025, Nickolas ranks 1,492nd in popularity, with about 1 in 14,475 newborn boys receiving the name.
Is Nickolas a boy or girl name?
Nickolas is almost exclusively used as a boy's name.