Nicodemus: a male name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Nīkódēmos (Νῑκόδημος),” composed of two elements: “nīkē (νίκη)” (victory, success) plus “dêmos (δῆμος)” (people, common people, district, country, land)".It derives from the Greek word "NĪKĒ dêmos > Nīkódēmos".
Nicodemus is a masculine name that means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Nīkódēmos (Νῑκόδημος),” composed of two elements: “nīkē (νίκη)” (victory, success) plus “dêmos (δῆμος)” (people, common people, district, country, land)". Its Greek origins reflect deep cultural values and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Parents choosing this name often appreciate its profound significance and timeless appeal.
Quick Facts About Nicodemus
Quick facts about Nicodemus
Origin
Greek
Gender
Boy name
Popularity
Uncommon
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Nīkódēmos (Νῑκόδημος),” composed of two elements: “nīkē (νίκη)” (victory, success) plus “dêmos (δῆμος)” (people, common people, district, country, land). In turn, the name means “victory of the people.” Saint Nicodemus was a Pharisee and a member of the Sanhedrin, who, according to the Gospel of John, showed favor to Jesus. Nicodemus is venerated as a saint in the various Eastern churches and the Roman Catholic Church. The Eastern Orthodox and Byzantine Catholic churches commemorate Nicodemus on the Sunday of the Myrrhbearers, celebrated on the Third Sunday of Pascha.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
NĪKĒ dêmos > Nīkódēmos
How to Pronounce Nicodemus
Nicodemus is pronounced /ˌnɪk.əˈdiː.məs/(Greek)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Nic-od-em-us
Say it like: "NIC-OD-EM-US"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Nicodemus is predominantly used in ancient Greek (Latinized) speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.
ancient Greek (Latinized)
Frequently Asked Questions About Nicodemus
What does the name Nicodemus mean?
Nicodemus means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Nīkódēmos (Νῑκόδημος),” composed of two elements: “nīkē (νίκη)” (victory, success) plus “dêmos (δῆμος)” (people, common people, district, country, land). In turn, the name means “victory of the people.” Saint Nicodemus was a Pharisee and a member of the Sanhedrin, who, according to the Gospel of John, showed favor to Jesus. Nicodemus is venerated as a saint in the various Eastern churches and the Roman Catholic Church. The Eastern Orthodox and Byzantine Catholic churches commemorate Nicodemus on the Sunday of the Myrrhbearers, celebrated on the Third Sunday of Pascha.". The name comes from NĪKĒ dêmos > Nīkódēmos. In its original form, the name derives from nīkē (νίκη) dêmos (δῆμος) Nīkódēmos (Νῑκόδημος). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Nicodemus for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Nīkódēmos (Νῑκόδημος),” composed of two elements: “nīkē (νίκη)” (victory, success) plus “dêmos (δῆμος)” (people, common people, district, country, land). In turn, the name means “victory of the people.” Saint Nicodemus was a Pharisee and a member of the Sanhedrin, who, according to the Gospel of John, showed favor to Jesus. Nicodemus is venerated as a saint in the various Eastern churches and the Roman Catholic Church. The Eastern Orthodox and Byzantine Catholic churches commemorate Nicodemus on the Sunday of the Myrrhbearers, celebrated on the Third Sunday of Pascha." as a quality they hope to see in their child. Nicodemus offers a distinctive option for parents who want a name with clear meaning that stands apart from more common choices. The name is associated with qualities like BIBLICAL, reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Nicodemus?
Nicodemus is a greek name. The name traces back to NĪKĒ dêmos > Nīkódēmos. The original form nīkē (νίκη) dêmos (δῆμος) Nīkódēmos (Νῑκόδημος) shows the name's roots in its native language. The name remains closely tied to ancient Greek (Latinized) naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Nīkódēmos (Νῑκόδημος),” composed of two elements: “nīkē (νίκη)” (victory, success) plus “dêmos (δῆμος)” (people, common people, district, country, land). In turn, the name means “victory of the people.” Saint Nicodemus was a Pharisee and a member of the Sanhedrin, who, according to the Gospel of John, showed favor to Jesus. Nicodemus is venerated as a saint in the various Eastern churches and the Roman Catholic Church. The Eastern Orthodox and Byzantine Catholic churches commemorate Nicodemus on the Sunday of the Myrrhbearers, celebrated on the Third Sunday of Pascha." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Nicodemus a boy or girl name?
Nicodemus is a boy's name. The name has been used for boys across many generations, maintaining its masculine character through different eras and cultures. In greek tradition, Nicodemus has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Nīkódēmos (Νῑκόδημος),” composed of two elements: “nīkē (νίκη)” (victory, success) plus “dêmos (δῆμος)” (people, common people, district, country, land). In turn, the name means “victory of the people.” Saint Nicodemus was a Pharisee and a member of the Sanhedrin, who, according to the Gospel of John, showed favor to Jesus. Nicodemus is venerated as a saint in the various Eastern churches and the Roman Catholic Church. The Eastern Orthodox and Byzantine Catholic churches commemorate Nicodemus on the Sunday of the Myrrhbearers, celebrated on the Third Sunday of Pascha." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Nicodemus?
Nicodemus is pronounced "/ˌnɪk.əˈdiː.məs/". This pronunciation follows el language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Nicodemus is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Nicodemus can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root NĪKĒ dêmos > Nīkódēmos influences how Nicodemus sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Nicodemus?
Nicodemus is less common but not rare. As a less common choice, Nicodemus gives a child a name that stands out. Most people will encounter it rarely, making it memorable when they do. Nicodemus's popularity may vary between greek communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Nīkódēmos (Νῑκόδημος),” composed of two elements: “nīkē (νίκη)” (victory, success) plus “dêmos (δῆμος)” (people, common people, district, country, land). In turn, the name means “victory of the people.” Saint Nicodemus was a Pharisee and a member of the Sanhedrin, who, according to the Gospel of John, showed favor to Jesus. Nicodemus is venerated as a saint in the various Eastern churches and the Roman Catholic Church. The Eastern Orthodox and Byzantine Catholic churches commemorate Nicodemus on the Sunday of the Myrrhbearers, celebrated on the Third Sunday of Pascha." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Nicodemus holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Nicodemus commonly used?
Nicodemus is used primarily in ancient Greek (Latinized) naming traditions. Though greek in origin, Nicodemus found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Nīkódēmos (Νῑκόδημος),” composed of two elements: “nīkē (νίκη)” (victory, success) plus “dêmos (δῆμος)” (people, common people, district, country, land). In turn, the name means “victory of the people.” Saint Nicodemus was a Pharisee and a member of the Sanhedrin, who, according to the Gospel of John, showed favor to Jesus. Nicodemus is venerated as a saint in the various Eastern churches and the Roman Catholic Church. The Eastern Orthodox and Byzantine Catholic churches commemorate Nicodemus on the Sunday of the Myrrhbearers, celebrated on the Third Sunday of Pascha." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Nicodemus into their naming traditions. A child named Nicodemus will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Nicodemus is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Nicodemus?
Nicodemus carries associations with BIBLICAL. These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Nīkódēmos (Νῑκόδημος),” composed of two elements: “nīkē (νίκη)” (victory, success) plus “dêmos (δῆμος)” (people, common people, district, country, land). In turn, the name means “victory of the people.” Saint Nicodemus was a Pharisee and a member of the Sanhedrin, who, according to the Gospel of John, showed favor to Jesus. Nicodemus is venerated as a saint in the various Eastern churches and the Roman Catholic Church. The Eastern Orthodox and Byzantine Catholic churches commemorate Nicodemus on the Sunday of the Myrrhbearers, celebrated on the Third Sunday of Pascha." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In greek culture, where Nicodemus originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Nicodemus sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Nicodemus often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In ancient Greek (Latinized) communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.