Liberal Dictionary English Dictionary
noun
- of Cu·sa [kyoo-zuh] /ˈkyu zə/, 1401–1464, German cardinal, mathematician, and philosopher.German Nikolaus von Cusa.
- Grand Duke,1856–1929, Russian general in World War I.
- Saint,flourished 4th century a.d., bishop in Asia Minor: patron saint of Russia; protector of children and prototype of the legendary Santa Claus.
- a male given name: from Greek words meaning “victory” and “people.”
noun
- SaintNicholas the Great, died a.d. 867, Italian ecclesiastic: pope 858–867.
- 1796–1855, czar of Russia 1825–55.
noun
- Saint. 4th-century ad bishop of Myra, in Asia Minor; patron saint of Russia and of children, sailors, merchants, and pawnbrokers. Feast day: Dec 6See also Santa Claus
noun
- Saint, called the Great. died 867 ad, Italian ecclesiastic; pope (858–867). He championed papal supremacy. Feast day: Nov 13
- 1796–1855, tsar of Russia (1825–55). He gained notoriety for his autocracy and his emphasis on military discipline and bureaucracy
masc. proper name, from French Nicolas, from Latin Nicholaus, Nicolaus, from Greek Nikholaos, literally “victory-people,” from nike “victory” (see Nike) + laos “people” (see lay (adj.)). The saint (obit. 326 C.E.) was a bishop of Myra in Lycia, patron of scholars, especially schoolboys. A popular given name in England in Middle Ages, as was the fem. form Nicolaa, corresponding to French Nicole. Colloquial Old Nick “the devil” is attested from 1640s, evidently from the proper name, but for no certain reason.
A Greek fourth-century bishop, Nicholas was known for his kindness. Santa Claus is an English version of his Dutch name, Sinter Klaas. Legends about him, stating that he gave presents in secret to persons in trouble, contributed to the traditions surrounding Santa Claus.