Nico

Nico is the short form of Nicholas used primarily among the Dutch, Germans, Italians, Portuguese and Spanish. The name Nicholas is the anglicized spelling of the Greek name “Nikolaos” which is derived from “nikē” (victory) and “laos” (people). Nicholas came into regular usage in the later Middle Ages owing to the growing cult and popularity of St. Nicholas (who lived during the 3rd and 4th centuries in modern day Turkey). St. Nicholas was known for his secret gift-giving and thus became the inspiration behind the Christmas tradition of Santa Clause (it was the Dutch who developed the concept of “Sinterklaas” in the 19th century). Yet centuries before, St. Nicholas was revered among Catholics and Eastern Orthodox Christians alike (which is why this name has enjoyed widespread international appeal). He is known as the patron saint of children (aptly so). Among the Greeks and Italians, St. Nicholas is also considered the patron saint of sailors and was often revered as a Christianized version of the sea god Poseidon. Many miracles were attributed to St. Nicholas so it’s no wonder that the name became a favorite of many Christian cultures throughout the Western World. Nicholas remains a hugely popular name among English speakers, but it has also produced several other variations in other languages, as well as many diminutives including Nick, Claus, Klaas, Nils, Niko and Nico (some examples). Nico is currently a Top 25 boy’s name in German-speaking Austria.