Nikolai
Nikolai first appears in US records in 1960. It peaked in 2016, when 639 boys were given the name; in 2025 there were 469.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Is Nikolai popular?
Rising Nikolai has climbed over the past decade, given to more boys now than ten years ago.
| 2020s | 3,057 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 5,060 | |
| 2000s | 1,632 | |
| 1990s | 733 | |
| 1980s | 291 | |
| 1970s | 202 | |
| 1960s | 52 |
Counts from US Social Security Administration data, 1880–2025.
What does Nikolai mean?
Nikolai is a Slavic form of Nicholas, “victory of the people.”
Names like Nikolai
Slavic names with a similar feel and popularity.
Names that pair well with Nikolai
Popular Slavic names for a sibling or a middle name.
Compare Nikolai
Explore related names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Nikolai mean?
Nikolai means Victory of the people. Nikolai is a Slavic form of Nicholas, “victory of the people.”
What is the origin of the name Nikolai?
Nikolai is of Slavic origin.
How do you pronounce Nikolai?
Nikolai is pronounced “nee-koh-LY.”
Is Nikolai a boy or a girl name?
Nikolai is most commonly used as a boy name.
Is Nikolai a popular name right now?
Nikolai has climbed over the past decade, given to more boys now than ten years ago.
How popular is the name Nikolai?
In 2025, Nikolai ranked #605 among boys’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name Nikolai most popular?
Nikolai was most popular in 2016, when about 639 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.
What names are similar to Nikolai?
Names similar to Nikolai include Vladimir, Yuri, Boris, Bogdan, Miroslav.
What names go well with Nikolai?
Slavic names that pair well with Nikolai include Mila, Vera, Nadia, Milan, Danica.