Nikita is a name of Russian origin, derived from the Slavic root "nik," which means "no" or "not." The full form of the name is Nikita Nikitich, where "Nikitich" is a patronymic suffix meaning "son of Nikita."
The name Nikita has been used historically among the Slavic peoples for centuries. One notable historical figure named Nikita was Saint Nikita, also known as Nikita of Karbavin, who was a Russian Orthodox saint and monk in the 14th century.
In Russia, Nikita is considered a male name, but it has gained popularity worldwide as a unisex name in recent years. It is often associated with strength, courage, and leadership due to its historical usage among notable figures like Saint Nikita.
Today, Nikita is a popular choice for parents looking for a unique yet meaningful name for their child. Its origins and history provide a rich cultural background that adds depth to the name's significance.
The name Nikita saw significant popularity from the late 1950s to the mid-1980s, with a peak of 1034 births in 1986. However, its usage has declined considerably since then, with fewer than 100 births per year recorded between 2007 and 2022, inclusive. As of 2022, there have been a total of 10,711 births named Nikita since 1949.