Nicola
/niˈkɔ.la/
The English name Nicholas is translated into Italian as Nicola. Wiktionary also lists Niccolò.
Meaning: male given name (name)
Ways to say it
| Italian | IPA |
|---|---|
| Nicola | /niˈkɔ.la/ |
| Niccolò | /nik.koˈlɔ/ |
Both Nicola and Niccolò are used as male given names in Italian.
Which one should you use?
Nicola is a common version of the name, whereas Niccolò is a more traditional and distinctly masculine Italian variant.
How do you pronounce it?
The name is pronounced /niˈkɔ.la/. It has 3 syllables, with the stress on the 2nd syllable.
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often assume Nicola is a female name, but in Italian, it is a standard male name.
Did you know?
- The name derives from the Greek words 'nikē' meaning 'victory' and 'laos' meaning 'people'. Therefore, the name Nicola literally translates to 'victory of the people'.
- The name Niccolò is famously borne by Niccolò Machiavelli, whose name is now synonymous with political cunning and strategy.
- In Italian culture, the feast day of Saint Nicola is celebrated with great enthusiasm, particularly in the southern region of Puglia.
Examples in context
- Si chiama Nicola.His name is Nicola.
- Ho incontrato Nicola al bar.I met Nicola at the bar.
- Nicola è un bravo ragazzo.Nicola is a good guy.
Example conversation
Chiara and Francesco are talking about a mutual friend.
- ChiaraConosci Nicola?Do you know Nicola?
- FrancescoSì, lo conosco da anni.Yes, I have known him for years.
- ChiaraÈ un uomo molto gentile.He is a very kind man.
- FrancescoDavvero, Nicola è fantastico.Truly, Nicola is fantastic.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “nicholas” translations and entries Nicola, Niccolò, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Niccolò, Nicola, CC BY-SA 4.0.
