James
The Meaning & Origin of the Name James
James, which has 5 letters and 1 syllable, is a male name of English origin.
Meaning of James
Supplanter
The name James is of Hebrew origin and means "supplanter" or "one who follows". It is also a popular name in many English-speaking countries.
| Meaning | Supplanter |
| Origin | English |
| Gender | Boy |
| Popularity (US) | #5 in 2024 Steady |
| Rarity (US) | Very Popular (Top 10) |
| Era | Vintage (1940s) |
Background & History of The Name James
James is a popular name that has its roots in Hebrew. It is derived from the Hebrew name Yaakov, which means "supplanter" or "one who replaces." The name James has a rich history and is widely used in many different cultures and languages. In the Bible, James was the name of two of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. The first was James, the son of Zebedee, who was one of the disciples closest to Jesus and was present at significant events such as the Transfiguration and the Garden of Gethsemane. The second was James, the son of Alphaeus, who is often referred to as James the Less. They were both important figures in the early Christian community.
The name James has been popular throughout history, with many notable individuals carrying this name. King James I of England and VI of Scotland is one of the most prominent figures associated with the name. He was a patron of the arts and sciences and is best known for commissioning the King James Version of the Bible. This English translation of the Bible has had a significant impact on Christianity and English literature.
In addition to its biblical and historical significance, the name James has remained popular in modern times. It has a timeless appeal and has consistently been one of the most popular names for boys in English-speaking countries. Famous modern James' include James Bond, the fictional British spy created by Ian Fleming, and James Cameron, the renowned filmmaker behind blockbuster movies such as Titanic and Avatar.
Overall, the name James carries a sense of strength, history, and cultural significance. Its enduring popularity and widespread usage make it a classic and timeless choice for parents seeking a strong and traditional name for their child.
Popularity Over Time
US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of James over the years.
Similar English Baby Names
Check Initials
See what initials James would create with your last name.
Nicknames
Common nicknames and short forms for James.
Save This Name
Create an account to save names to your lists and share with your partner.
Create Free Account