Name of the day: Nicholas

There are just some names that truly stand the test of time. The timeless classics that never fade from the spotlight. Those names that age like fine wine throughout every milestone for every generation. Think of Elizabeth, Margaret, James and today’s name of the day: Nicholas.

Since the 1880s, Nicholas has never departed from the top 200. He has only gained momentum over the last century topping the charts in 1999 rounding out the top 5! In 1999, 25,460 boys were gifted Nicholas as their first name. A popular choice to say the least. Fast forward to 2020, 4,024 boys were named Nicholas giving him a placement of #87. Today, Nicholas isn’t as dominating as it was back then but it’s still highly favored amongst today’s parents.

Variations and Versions

Spelling variations of Nicholas have also found a home amongst today’s top contenders. Nicolas is ranked at #202. Nikolai is placed at #547. Nikolas found that sweet spot at #603 and Niklaus rounds out the category at #887. Female versions have made a lasting impact too. Nicole (266) is the most commonly thought of female version but lets not count out Colette (529) and Victoria (34) as they too are derived from the same root. A few other versions from around the world have made it over to the states in a much quieter way.

  • Caelan - Scottish Gaelic

  • Nicola - Italian

  • Nicanor - Spanish

  • Nicodemus - Greek

  • Nikita - Russian

No matter the origin this name is clearly a victorious choice.

Miniature Monikers

Just like Elizabeth, Nicholas lends himself to a few miniature monikers that parents can’t resist. The pondering question is, Do you prefer a “C” or a “K’? Cole seems to be the most common nickname listed in the top 1,000. Yes, more popular than Nick. In fact, Nick has not been chosen as an independent option since 2009. Currently, Cole comes in at #131 while similar Kole comes in at #849. Quite the difference. Nico and Niko don’t differ as much in favoritism as they’re currently ranked at #317 and #358 respectfully. Colin (285) Colson (350) Collins (365) Kinsey and even Nixon (651) are also known to be great diminutives. Steering clear of Nick certainly gives Nicholas a more modernized approach.

Influential Pop Culture

How did Nicholas become such a chart-toping classic? This name got a boost in the mid 60’s thanks to western drama The Big Valley and have been heavily showcased by the pop culture scene from then on.

The name has been sported by a variety of actors including Nicholas Nolte, Nicholas Cage and Nick Robinson. Characters a like have also sported the name over the last 50 years. Our top picks include Nick Moore from Family Ties, Nick Parker from The Parent Trap, Nicky Katsopolis from Full House, Nicky Banks from The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and Nick Wilde from Zootopia.

Famous Nicholas’ gained worldwide recognition once again in the 2000s thanks to teen boy band heartthrobs Nick Jonas and Nick Lachey. You know we all had their posters hanging on our bedroom walls.

Nicholas also offers lovely literacy ties starting with 1839’s Charles Dickens classic Nicholas Nickleby. Nearly a century later came F. Scott Fitzgerald’s publication of The Great Gatsby narrated by Nick Carraway; and let’s not forget romantic novelist Nicholas Sparks. If he didn’t make you fall in love with this name I don’t know what will.

Ole Saint Nick

Widely celebrated in Europe, December 6th marks Saint Nicholas Day in honor of his passing. (His name day is also celebrated on this day). It may account to why this name trends vastly around this time of year. However his story stretches all the way to 270 A.D in Patara, Myra in modern day Turkey. He became readily known to be the patron saint of Greece and Russia; as well as the protector of bikers, brides, mechanics, sailors, scholars, schoolchildren and travelers. Thanks to this guardian angel, Saint Nicholas Day is a vastly popular day for marriages and business transactions.

In 1773, when a New York newspaper reported Dutch families gathering together on the anniversary of his death, American’s took notice. The name Santa Claus was derived from the Dutch pronunciation Sint Nikolaas. An thus, Santa Claus was born. Just like Saint Nicholas, Santa Claus was a giver. He used his magic to help those less fortunate and in need. In fact, a large portion of the story of Saint Nicholas made up the story of Santa, yet the two are not directly related.

As the story goes St. Nicholas, seasonally known as Santa Claus or Kris Kringle brings toys to young boys and girls every Christmas Eve. In the early 1890s, the Salvation Army began dressing up men into the streets of New York to solicit donations and just like that, holiday bell ringers and mall Santa’s swept the nations. Making a great wave into the American culture. Regardless of the name, everyone knows the story of this jolly gift giving man in the red suit. He is the most iconic character associated with Christmas after all.

Find The Nick-Name

Chances are you know at least one person named Nicholas; or if you’re a 90s baby like me you probably know a school full. No surprise there considering it was locked into the top ten from 1993-2002. Because of it’s longtime love it has now joined the “quintessential dad name” category next to the Brandon’s, Justin’s, Steven’s and Tyler’s of way back when. Let’s face it, these 90’s babies aren’t babies anymore - now their having their own babies. While we love the idea of watching little Nick Jr. running around on the playground it feels like a lot to live up too, plus a little too brand worthy for our taste. I think Nike would agree. Wouldn’t you?

Cole and Victoria would make a beautiful legacy for themselves while honoring their doating dad, we wanted to showcase one option you’ll want to get behind! There are many names that almost hide Nicholas in plain sight. A little confused? Take a look. Annika (835) Dominic (88) Monica (703) and Veronica (380) all hide ‘nic’ in them. As does Danica, Jenica, Nichelle, Titanic and Yannick. A subtle way to honor without choosing a top tier moniker.

While there are many variations, diminutives and honor names to choose from, our hearts keep circling back to timeless, traditional Nicholas. It doesn’t have such a rich history line for nothing. Nicholas is truly one of those names that you can wear proudly at age 8, 58 and even 98. Nicholas is a classic for a reason, and a classic he will remain.

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December Babies