Claus

Claus is perhaps one of the most Christmas-y names of all time. Of course, every one knows Santa Claus and the name actually forms the foundation of the beloved children’s figure.

Detailed Meaning

Claus is the German short form of Nicholas, which comes from the Greek name Nikolaos, meaning “victory of the people.” Saint Nicholas was the patron saint of children, sailors and merchants and he formed the basis for the figure known as Santa Claus, the bringer of Christmas presents to children around the world.

Famous People With This Name

While the most famous Claus we know is Santa Claus, it is actually quite a common name in many European countries. There is Claus von Amsberg, Prince of the Netherlands, Claus Bech Jørgensen, a Danish-born Faroese footballer, and Claus Schenk Graf von Stauffenberg, one of the German officers who attempted to assassinate Hitler in 1944.

Possible Nicknames

One syllable names are usually quite difficult to make nicknames for, unless you add something to the end of it. There is Clausy or Clausie…or maybe you can just call him Santa!

Related Names

Claus can sometimes be spelled Clas or Klaus. Apart from the variations in spelling, Claus is a unique name in its own right and there are not many related names.

Stories Featuring This Name

The most famous story featuring a Claus is of course, the story of Santa Claus. Also known as Father Christmas, Kris Kringle or Saint Nicholas, he was based on an actual living bishop from the 4th century. He inherited a large sum of money when his parents died and had a reputation for helping the poor and giving out gifts. He was made a saint for his kindness, but eventually his stories went out of fashion during the 16th century, after the reformation. Saint Nicholas was eventually transformed into the jolly bearded man we know today.