Nikolai: meaning and origin
Nikolai
“Victory of the people”
About the name Nikolai
Nikolai is a boy’s name from the Slavic tradition. Its meaning is “victory of the people”. Names from Russian, Polish, Czech and other Slavic languages — like Mila, Nadia, Vera and Milan.
It’s a classic: a name that has been used for generations and still feels fresh.
More names with a similar meaning: names that mean victory.
Tips before you choose
- Say the full name out loud with your last name, and with any middle name.
- Check the initials — and what they spell.
- Think about nicknames kids might make from it.
- Write it down: is the spelling easy for teachers and friends?
More Slavic names
- Dmitri 👦Devoted to Demeter, the earth goddess · Slavic
- Ivan 👦God is gracious; a form of John · Slavic
- Milan 👦Gracious, dear · Slavic
- Sasha 🧒Defender; a Russian short form of Alexander · Slavic
Sibling name ideas (Slavic, girls)
- Anya 👧Grace; a form of Anna · Slavic
- Katya 👧Pure; a form of Katherine · Slavic
- Mila 👧Gracious, dear · Slavic
- Nadia 👧Hope · Slavic
- Vera 👧Faith; also Latin for true · Slavic
More boy names starting with N
- Nathan 👦He gave · Hebrew
- Nathaniel 👦Gift of God · Hebrew
- Nicholas 👦Victory of the people · Greek
- Nico 👦Victory of the people; a short form of Nicholas · Greek
- Noah 👦Rest, comfort · Hebrew
- Nolan 👦Champion, noble · Irish
Questions and answers
What does the name Nikolai mean?
Nikolai is a name of Slavic origin. It means: victory of the people.
Is Nikolai a boy or girl name?
Nikolai is usually given to boys.
How many syllables does Nikolai have?
Nikolai has 7 letters and about 3 syllables.