Nicolson

Nicolson is a surname of Scottish and Northern Irish origin. It is a patronymic surname, derived from the given name Nicol, a medieval form of Nicholas. Nicholas itself is derived from the Greek name Nikolaos, meaning "victory of the people" (from nike meaning "victory" and laos meaning "people").

The Nicolson clan is a Highland Scottish clan, historically associated with the Isle of Skye and the Outer Hebrides. A separate family of Nicolsons also existed in Galloway, in southwestern Scotland, though not considered part of the Highland clan.

Notable people with the surname Nicolson include:

• Ben Nicolson (1894-1982): A British abstract painter, known for his white reliefs and still life paintings.
• Harold Nicolson (1886-1968): A British diplomat, author, diarist, and politician. He was married to Vita Sackville-West.
• Juliet Nicolson (born 1954): A British author and historian, granddaughter of Harold Nicolson and Vita Sackville-West.
• Margaret Nicolson (18th Century): A woman who attempted to assassinate King George III.
• William Nicolson (1655-1727): An English churchman, antiquarian, and linguist who served as Bishop of Carlisle and later as Archbishop of Cashel.

The spelling Nicholson is a common variant of the name. The prevalence of both spellings depends on family history and geographical location.