James: Meaning, Origin, and Popularity
A name worn by kings and visionaries, meaning the one who follows closely.
- Origin
- Hebrew
- Syllables
- 1
- Current rank
- #4
- Peak
- #1 in 1947
Trend: Steady, holding a similar rank across the latest decade.
Popularity over time
Lower rank = more popular (rank 1 is the most popular name)
What James Means
James is a boy name of Hebrew origin. A name worn by kings and visionaries, meaning the one who follows closely.
How Popular James Is
James currently ranks #4 among boy names in the United States, based on Social Security Administration data. It peaked at #1 in 1947. It has held steady.
Good to Know About James
- James has never left the U.S. top 20, making it one of the most enduring names in history.
- Six U.S. presidents have been named James.
- The name comes from the Hebrew Jacob, meaning supplanter.
Names Like James
Other Hebrew names that start with the same letter or share a style.
Sibling Names for James
Hebrew names that pair well as a brother or sister to James.
Questions About James
What does James mean?
James is a boy name of Hebrew origin. A name worn by kings and visionaries, meaning the one who follows closely.
How popular is James?
James currently ranks #4 among boy names in the United States, based on Social Security Administration data. It peaked at #1 in 1947. It has held steady.
Where does James come from?
James comes from Hebrew roots. James has never left the U.S. top 20, making it one of the most enduring names in history.
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