The given name Nico has its origins in the Greek language and culture, with roots dating back to ancient times. It is a diminutive form of the name Nicholas, which is derived from the Greek words "nikē" meaning "victory" and "laos" meaning "people." Consequently, the name Nico carries the meaning of "victor of the people" or "people's victory."

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Nico can be found in the writings of the ancient Greek historian Plutarch, who mentions a man named Nico in his work "Parallel Lives." This suggests that the name was in use during the 1st century AD in the Greco-Roman world.

In the early Christian era, the name Nico gained popularity as a shortened version of Nicholas, which was the name of a 4th-century saint revered in various Christian traditions. Saint Nicholas, also known as Santa Claus, was renowned for his generosity and kindness towards children, which further contributed to the name's positive connotations.

Throughout history, several notable figures have borne the name Nico. One such individual was Nico Dekker, a Dutch artist and sculptor who lived from 1509 to 1582 and was known for his intricate woodcarvings. Another prominent Nico was Nico de Lange, a 17th-century Dutch painter renowned for his landscapes and genre scenes, who lived from 1612 to 1681.

In the realm of literature, Nico Gunzburg, a Russian poet and translator, made significant contributions to the literary world during his lifetime from 1882 to 1984. Nico Doslic, a Croatian writer and journalist born in 1926, was also a notable figure who used this given name.

Moving into the 20th century, the name Nico gained further recognition with the rise of Nico Doslic, a Croatian writer and journalist born in 1926, and Nico Masee, a Dutch footballer who played for the national team and various clubs between 1955 and 1972.

These are just a few examples of notable individuals who have carried the name Nico throughout history, highlighting its enduring presence across various cultures and time periods.