What does Nick mean and where does it come from?
Though traditionally a male name (diminutive of Nicholas), Nick has gained usage as a female name in modern contexts. Nick can also be seen as a short form of names such as Nicole or Nicky. It has various cultural associations and can be popular in the United States and the United Kingdom.
Cultural significance
Nick has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of greek.
Peak popularity
Reached #3449 in 1937 — currently #1102 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Nick?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Nick?
Nick works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Nick Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Nick Rose
Floral · soft ending
Nick Claire
French influence · crisp
Nick Jane
Literary · strong
Nick Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Nick right now?
Holding steady — currently #1102 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1102 | 1,098 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1107 | 1,078 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #1112 | 1,048 | ▲ up 6917 · +20860% births |
| 1970 | #8029 | 5 | ▼ down 2196 · -17% births |
| 1965 | #5833 | 6 | ▼ down 1604 · +20% births |
| 1935 | #4229 | 5 | ▲ up 210 · -17% births |
| 1925 | #4439 | 6 | ▲ up 557 · +20% births |
| 1920 | #4996 | 5 | — |
The story of Nick
Nick entered American naming records in 1916 and has been in use for over 108 years. A total of 49,896 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4996 in 1920 to #1102 in 2023. Nick is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
Names that peaked alongside Nick in 1937:
Nick by decade
Nick peaked in the 1930s. See all 1930s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 394 | |
| 1890s | 346 | |
| 1900s | 588 | |
| 1910s | 4,699 | |
| 1920s | 6,882 | |
| 1930s | 4,684 | |
| 1940s | 5,120 | |
| 1950s | 5,696 | |
| 1960s ★ | 8,025 | |
| 1970s | 4,918 | |
| 1980s | 2,726 | |
| 1990s | 1,979 | |
| 2000s | 2,167 | |
| 2010s | 1,552 | |
| 2020s | 120 | |
What are good nicknames for Nick?
What names sound and feel like Nick?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Nick also consider these
How is Nick written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Nick
What does the name Nick mean?
Nick means "Greek" — a name rooted in American tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Nick?
Nick is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Nick?
Nick originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Nick?
Nick is a one-syllable name pronounced N IH1 K. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Nick sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Nick flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Nick ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.