James
James first appears in US records in 1880. It peaked in 1947, when 94,767 boys were given the name; in 2025 there were 11,945.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Is James popular?
Steady James has held fairly steady over the past decade, after peaking in 1947.
| 2020s | 72,523 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 139,689 | |
| 2000s | 163,179 | |
| 1990s | 244,980 | |
| 1980s | 356,491 | |
| 1970s | 444,713 | |
| 1960s | 684,722 | |
| 1950s | 843,768 | |
| 1940s | 795,775 | |
| 1930s | 547,479 | |
| 1920s | 515,301 | |
| 1910s | 275,070 | |
| 1900s | 62,170 | |
| 1890s | 50,723 | |
| 1880s | 54,055 |
Counts from US Social Security Administration data, 1880–2025.
What does James mean?
James descends, through Latin Iacomus, from the Hebrew Yaʿaqov (Jacob), traditionally read as “supplanter” or “one who follows.” It has been borne by kings and two apostles.
Nicknames for James
- Jim
- Jamie
- Jimmy
Variants & spellings
- Jacob
- Jaime
- Iago
Names like James
Hebrew names with a similar feel and popularity.
Names that pair well with James
Popular Hebrew names for a sibling or a middle name.
Compare James
Explore related names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name James mean?
James means Supplanter. James descends, through Latin Iacomus, from the Hebrew Yaʿaqov (Jacob), traditionally read as “supplanter” or “one who follows.” It has been borne by kings and two apostles.
What is the origin of the name James?
James is of Hebrew origin.
How do you pronounce James?
James is pronounced “JAYMZ.”
Is James a boy or a girl name?
James is most commonly used as a boy name.
Is James a popular name right now?
James has held fairly steady over the past decade, after peaking in 1947.
How popular is the name James?
In 2025, James ranked #6 among boys’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name James most popular?
James was most popular in 1947, when about 94,767 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.
What are common nicknames for James?
Common nicknames for James include Jim, Jamie, Jimmy.
What names are similar to James?
Names similar to James include Henry, William, Thomas, Charles.
What names go well with James?
Hebrew names that pair well with James include Michael, John, David, Mary, Matthew.