Mikolaj is a name of Polish origin, derived from the Latin name Nicolaus, which means "victory of the people." It is believed to have been brought to Poland by early Christian missionaries who translated the Greek name Nikolaos into its Latin equivalent. The name was particularly popular among the nobility in medieval Poland and has since become one of the most common male names in the country.
The history of the name Mikolaj can be traced back to the 4th century, when St. Nicholas, a bishop from Myra in modern-day Turkey, became revered as a saint for his kindness and generosity. Over time, the cult of St. Nicholas spread throughout Europe, and his name became popular among Christians.
In Poland, Mikolaj was often associated with the patron saint of children, which may have contributed to its popularity among parents naming their sons. It is also worth noting that the name has been borne by several notable historical figures in Polish history, including Mikolaj Kopernik (Copernicus), a renowned astronomer and mathematician.
Today, Mikolaj remains a popular name in Poland and other Slavic countries, although its popularity has declined somewhat in recent years. Nonetheless, it continues to be associated with traditions and customs related to St. Nicholas Day on December 6th, when children receive small gifts or treats from Mikolaj's helper, an old woman known as Babcia (Grandmother).
The name Mikolaj saw a significant increase in popularity between 2004 and 2008, with the number of births peaking at 17 in both 2007 and 2008. However, since then, the number of babies named Mikolaj has fluctuated but generally remained lower, ranging from 5 to 13 births per year. The most recent data shows that there were 8 births in 2023.