Nicolaas is a name of Dutch origin, derived from the Latin 'Nicolaus', which means 'victory of the people'. It was borne by several saints and prominent figures throughout history, most notably Saint Nicholas, who inspired the modern-day figure of Santa Claus. In the Netherlands, Nicolaas is typically used as both a first and last name, reflecting its prevalence in Dutch culture. It has also gained popularity in other countries, particularly among those with strong ties to Dutch heritage or culture.
The name Nicolaas experienced fluctuations in popularity over the years, with a notable spike from 1995 to 1997, reaching its peak in 1996 with 22 births. However, it appears that its usage has declined steadily since then, with only 5 births recorded each year in 2013 and 2015.