What does the surname Nicholas mean?

The surname Nicholas means "Victory of the people.". It is of Greek origin.

How common is the Nicholas surname?

There are approximately 850,000 people with the surname Nicholas in the United States.

Are there Nicholas soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 1,784 soldiers with the Nicholas surname appear in Civil War records.

Nicholas

Patronymic

Meaning

Victory of the people.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek personal name Nikolaos, composed of 'nike' (victory) and 'laos' (people), popularized by Saint Nicholas of Myra. The surname developed as a patronymic from this widely used given name across medieval Europe.

About the Nicholas Surname

A widespread patronymic surname derived from the popular Greek personal name Nicholas, popularized by Saint Nicholas veneration. The name has been borne by numerous notable figures across multiple centuries and professions.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 850,000 bearers in the United States #73 most common surname

Rare Common

Found worldwide with significant concentrations in English-speaking countries, France, and other European regions.

Nicholas Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

People with the Nicholas Surname

Clyde Nicholas

Quick Facts

Origin: Greek
Classification: Patronymic
Earliest Record: 11th century
Estimated Bearers: 850,000

War Records

1,784 soldiers with the Nicholas surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →