Nikolai is a common male given name of Slavic origin, derived from the Greek name Nikolaos, meaning "victory of the people." It is widely used in countries such as Russia, Ukraine, and Bulgaria. The name has various forms and diminutives, including Nikolay and Kolya. In literature and popular culture, Nikolai appears in various works, often representing characters with strong moral values or complex personalities. Notable figures with this name include Nikolai Gogol, a famous Russian writer, and Nikolai Tesla, the renowned inventor and electrical engineer known for his contributions to the development of alternating current.