The name "Nichol" is commonly spelled with an "o" instead of the more traditional "i" in "Nichols". The spelling may have originated as a phonetic spelling of the sound of the name, which is pronounced /ˈnɪkəl/ in IPA phonetic transcription. It is important to note that spelling variations of names can occur for various reasons, including regional dialects or personal preferences. Regardless of the spelling, the name continues to be a popular choice for parents naming their children.
The word "Nichol" is a surname of English and Scottish origin. It is derived from the given name "Nicholas", which itself comes from the Greek name "Nikolaos", composed of "nikē" meaning "victory" and "laos" meaning "people". Over time, "Nicholas" became a popular name in medieval Europe, and subsequently, surnames based on the given name emerged. "Nichol" is one such variation of the surname, which may have developed from different phonetic renderings or regional dialects.