IPA Pronunciation

nɪls

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Syllables

Nils is a Scandinavian form of the name Nicholas, derived from the Greek 'Nikolaos' meaning 'victory of the people' (from 'nike' meaning victory and 'laos' meaning people). Historically, it has been widely used in Nordic countries, symbolizing strength and triumph through community.

Cultural Significance of Nils

Nils has deep roots in Scandinavian culture, often associated with nobility and leadership due to its connection to the name Nicholas. It has been borne by kings, saints, and folklore heroes, making it a symbol of victory and protection. Its widespread use in Nordic countries reflects a cultural pride in heritage and strength.

Nils Name Popularity in 2025

Today, Nils remains a popular name in Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and Germany, admired for its simplicity and strong historical roots. Its classic yet approachable sound appeals to modern parents looking for a traditional name that is easy to pronounce internationally. The name sees steady usage in baby name charts across Scandinavia and parts of Europe.

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Popular Nicknames10

NilNillyNiloNilsieNilsyNinNilsonNilsitoNilsterNilsky
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International Variations11

NilsNielsNiloNilsuNilsasNilsanNilsarNilesNielNilsinNilsen

Similar Names You Might Love10

Name Energy & Essence

The name Nils carries the essence of “Champion or victorious people” from Scandinavian (from Greek) tradition. Names beginning with "N" often embody qualities of nature connection, nurturing, and creativity.

Symbolism

Cultural Significance

Nils has deep roots in Scandinavian culture, often associated with nobility and leadership due to its connection to the name Nicholas. It has been borne by kings, saints, and folklore heroes, making it a symbol of victory and protection. Its widespread use in Nordic countries reflects a cultural pride in heritage and strength.

Nils Ericson

Swedish inventor and mechanical engineer, known for his contributions to railway engineering in the 19th century.

Nils Dacke

Leader of the Dacke War, a significant peasant uprising in Sweden during the 1540s.

Nils Bohr

Danish physicist who made foundational contributions to understanding atomic structure and quantum theory.

Parents: Gustaf Skarsgård and Lena Sundström

Nils

🌐Spanish

Nils

🌐French

Nils

🌐German

Nils

🌐Italian

ニルス

🌐Japanese

尼尔斯

🌐Chinese

نيلس

🌐Arabic

Fun Fact About Nils

Nils is a favorite name in Scandinavian folklore, notably in the tale of 'Nils Holgersson,' a boy who travels across Sweden on the back of a goose.

Personality Traits for Nils

Those named Nils are often seen as confident, reliable, and friendly. They tend to have a strong sense of loyalty and are perceived as thoughtful leaders who balance intellect with warmth. The name carries an aura of quiet strength and determination, often linked with individuals who are both grounded and ambitious.

What does the name Nils mean?

Nils is a Scandinavian (from Greek) name meaning “Champion or victorious people”. Nils is a Scandinavian form of the name Nicholas, derived from the Greek 'Nikolaos' meaning 'victory of the people' (from 'nike' meaning victory and 'laos' meaning people). Historically, it has been widely used in Nordic countries, symbolizing strength and triumph through community.

How do you pronounce Nils?

Nils is pronounced (IPA: nɪls). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.

What are nicknames for Nils?

Popular nicknames for Nils include: Nil, Nilly, Nilo, Nilsie, Nilsy, Nin, Nilson, Nilsito, Nilster, Nilsky.

Who are famous people named Nils?

Famous people named Nils include: , , , Nils Frahm, Nils Lofgren.

Which celebrities named their baby Nils?

Celebrity babies named Nils include children of: Gustaf Skarsgård and Lena Sundström.

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Nils is a beautiful Scandinavian (from Greek) name meaning “Champion or victorious people”. Nils is a Scandinavian form of the name Nicholas, derived from the Greek 'Nikolaos' meaning 'victory of the people' (from 'nike' meaning victory and 'laos' meaning people). Historically, it has been w...

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