Nicholas, Saint


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.

The New Dictionary of Cultural Literacy, Third Edition Copyright © 2005 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.