Nikolaou is a Greek surname that can be challenging to spell correctly for those unfamiliar with the Greek language. The correct spelling of Nikolaou is [ni.ko.lau], with the stress on the second syllable. The "ou" at the end of the name is pronounced as a single sound, similar to "oo." It is important to remember that the "k" in Nikolaou is pronounced as a "k" sound, not a "c" sound as in English. With practice, the spelling and pronunciation of Nikolaou can be mastered.
The word "Nikolaou" is a Greek surname derived from the Greek given name "Νικόλαος" (Nikolaos), which means "victory of the people" or "people's triumph". It is composed of two elements: "νίκη" (nike), meaning "victory", and "λαός" (laos), meaning "people". The suffix "-ου" (ou) is a genitive case ending commonly used in Greek surnames to indicate descent or possession. Therefore, "Nikolaou" can be interpreted as "of Nikolaos" or "belonging to the people's triumph".