Nik is a short form of the Greek name Nikon, which means "victory of the people." This name has been used since ancient times and was even borne by several early saints. The most famous bearer of this name is probably Nikon of Moscow (1605-1681), who was a Russian Orthodox patriarch known for his reform efforts.
In modern times, Nik is often used as an independent given name rather than just a short form of Nikon. It has gained popularity in various countries around the world and is currently ranked among the top 1000 boy names in several nations, including the United States, Canada, and Australia.
While there are no specific historical figures or legendary characters associated with the name Nik, its meaning "victory of the people" can evoke ideas of triumph, unity, and collective success. Parents who choose this name for their child might be drawn to its strong, yet approachable sound, as well as its unique yet recognizable quality.
Nik is a rare name with fluctuating popularity over time. It had its first peak in the mid-70s and again in the late 80s to early 90s, with around 5-7 births per year during these periods. There was another small spike in the early 2000s, with 7 births recorded in 2002. Since then, Nik has maintained a steady presence but at lower frequencies, averaging around 6 births per year from 2005 onwards. The most recent years show a slight increase again, with 9 births each in 2019 and 2023. Overall, there have been a total of 206 recorded births with the name Nik since 1964.