📅 Since 1880🏆 141 years in top 1005.39% of births at peak
How to pronounce James
JAY·meez
/ˈdʒeɪ.miːz/ · stress on JAY · 2 syllables
“supplanter”
English origin · Boy name
What does James mean and where does it come from?
Traditionally a male name, James has been increasingly adopted as a feminine name in modern times. It originates from the Hebrew name Jacob, meaning 'supplanter' or 'one who follows.' James has a rich history in royal lineage, notably with King James I of England, and remains a popular name across E
Cultural significance
James has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of supplanter.
Holding steady — currently #4 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#4 · Top 0.01%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#4
11,727
stable · -3% births
2022
#4
12,109
▲ up 1 · -3% births
2021
#5
12,464
▲ up 1 · +2% births
2020
#6
12,250
▲ up 1 · -17% births
2015
#7
14,824
▲ up 12 · +7% births
2010
#19
13,883
▼ down 2 · -14% births
2005
#17
16,135
▲ up 1 · -10% births
2000
#18
17,987
▼ down 1 · -21% births
1995
#17
22,730
▼ down 9 · -30% births
1990
#8
32,349
▼ down 1 · -10% births
1985
#7
35,861
▼ down 2 · -9% births
1980
#5
39,325
▼ down 1 · -1% births
1975
#4
39,591
▼ down 2 · -36% births
1970
#2
61,759
▲ up 2 · -9% births
1965
#4
67,701
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for James
1940Rank #1
86,224
#6
↘Falling
1900 - 202328 years
The story of James
James has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. It reached the #1 spot in 1940, making it the most popular boy name in America that year. Over 5213K babies have been given this name — a true American classic. James is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
James means "supplanter" — a name rooted in English tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name James?
James is currently ranked #4 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of James?
James originates from English tradition. English names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name James?
James is a two-syllable name pronounced JH EY1 M IY0 Z. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is James more of a girl or boy name?
James is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
Sibling names that pair with James
For a sister
James & Emmett♡
James & Franklin♡
James & Willa♡
James & Dorothy♡
For a brother
James & Emmett♡
James & Steven♡
James & Franklin♡
James & Willa♡
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