Declining since 2004, #177 for boys today.
Popularity of Nicolas since 1882
Babies named Nicolas per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 26 |
| 1890s | 19 |
| 1900s | 51 |
| 1910s | 367 |
| 1920s | 749 |
| 1930s | 567 |
| 1940s | 694 |
| 1950s | 1,041 |
| 1960s | 1,388 |
| 1970s | 3,870 |
| 1980s | 10,268 |
| 1990s | 21,219 |
| 2000s | 28,267 |
| 2010s | 21,216 |
| 2020s | 11,843 |
Meaning & origin
The name Nicolas has deep roots in European religious and royal history. Derived from the Greek Nikolaos, it spread through the cult of Saint Nicholas and became a staple in French, Spanish, and Latino communities. In the United States, Nicolas has maintained moderate popularity, ranking 177th in 2025 with a 1-in-832 birth rate. It peaked in 1998, reflecting the broader trend of classic names in the 1990s, but has been gradually declining since 2004. The name is notably concentrated in states like Washington D.C., California, and New Jersey, indicating a strong multicultural appeal. Nicolas remains a familiar, respected choice that balances tradition with a modern feel.
Nicolas is the French and Spanish form of the Greek name Nikolaos, derived from 'nike' meaning victory and 'laos' meaning people. It became widespread across Europe through the veneration of Saint Nicholas, a 4th-century bishop known for his generosity and the legendary basis for Santa Claus. The name has been consistently popular in Christian cultures, particularly in France, Spain, and Latin America.
Where Nicolas 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.
“Nicolas” around the world
Where Nicolas lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
230
babies in 2024
Ireland
22
babies in 2025
Quebec
63
babies in 2025
Sources: INSEE (France) · CSO Ireland (Ireland) · Retraite Québec (Quebec).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Nick, Nico, Nicky, Nik
Sibling names for Nicolas
Names that share Nicolas's style, for a brother or sister.
Sisters: Sophia, Isabella, Olivia, Camila, Valentina, Marta, Yuliana, Coletta, Jacinda, Magali, Veronique, Aneta, Nicolasa, Nicollette, Yanina, Celicia, Graciana, Julianny, Magalie, Tannya, Nielle
Brothers: Mateo, Sebastian, Gabriel, Lucas, Daniel, Apolonio, Mathieu, Alejo, Matthieu, Damacio, Benoit, Lautaro
Names like Nicolas
Names whose popularity has moved with Nicolas's over the last 50 years.
