Nicholas Surname

The British surname Nicolas is a variant spelling of the more common surname Nicholas. The surname originates from the given name Nicholas, which is of Greek origin and means "victory of the people".

Origins and Meaning

The name Nicholas has been popular in England since the Norman Conquest of 1066, brought over by the Normans. It was commonly given in honour of Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of children and sailors. The name's popularity can also be attributed to the influence of the Crusades and the tales of Saint Nicholas' generosity and miracles.

Distribution

The surname Nicolas is found across the United Kingdom, with concentrations in various regions. According to historical records, the name has been present in England, Scotland, and Wales for centuries.

Notable Individuals

Notable individuals with the surname Nicolas include artists, scholars, and professionals across various fields. While there may not be as many prominent figures with the Nicolas variation compared to Nicholas, those with this surname have contributed to the rich tapestry of British society.

Variants

As with many surnames, variations of spelling are common due to differences in dialect and regional accents. Some common variants of Nicholas include Nicolas and Nicolson. These variants may have arisen from clerical errors, phonetic changes, or personal preferences.

Legacy

The surname Nicolas, like its variant Nicholas, carries with it a rich history and heritage. It symbolises resilience, community, and the enduring presence of the name across generations. As with many surnames, it serves as a link to the past, connecting individuals to their ancestors and their shared cultural roots.

There are approximately 519 people named Nicolas in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around eight in a million people in Britain are named Nicolas.

Region of origin: Europe

Country of origin: France

Language of origin: French

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andreas
  • Anthony
  • Antonios
  • Chris
  • Christopher
  • Christos
  • Frederick
  • James
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Sebastien
  • Stephen

Female

  • Alexis
  • Anna
  • Celine
  • Claire
  • Diane
  • Helen
  • Jean
  • Maria
  • Marie
  • Myra
  • Patricia
  • Stephane
  • Stephanie

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