The name James is deeply tied with notions of strength and guidance. The meaning of James originates from the Hebrew name Yaakov, which translates to ‘supplanter’ or ‘one who follows’. This meaning signifies someone who possesses a strong will and a leadership quality, often taking charge and assuming an influential role in life.
Find more names related to the name James.
Supplanter, Noble, Strong, Brave, Wise, Leader, Hebrew, English, Scottish,
The name James has its roots in the Hebrew name Yaakov, which evolved into the Latin suffix Iacomus and later into Iacobus, eventually transforming into England's James. Its cross-linguistic journey from Hebrew through Greek and Latin to its modern English form has cemented its place in historical and biblical texts across various cultures.
While traditionally male, the name James has occasionally been used as a female middle name in Western cultures. Notably, actors like Jaime King introduce its feminine crossover. Worldwide, the perception of James stands predominantly as a male name, often ranking highly in male baby name charts.
The name James has enjoyed immense popularity for decades, consistently appearing in top ten baby names lists, especially in the United States and England. Its timeless appeal is reflected in its sustained ranking from the 19th century to the present day. The name holds a cherished place within English-speaking communities.
In various cultures, James has found adaptations such as Diego in Spain and Jacques in France. Its pronunciation and form vary slightly, but its resonance remains strong. James's adoption into different languages showcases its global impact, standing as a robust choice among parents worldwide.
| Global Distribution and Gender Ratio of the Name James | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Country | Usage % | Female % | Male % |
| US | 60.42% | 0.49% | 99.51% |
| GB | 10.91% | 0.18% | 99.82% |
| PH | 3.86% | 0.9% | 99.1% |
| AU | 2.73% | 0.63% | 99.37% |
| CA | 2.66% | 0.37% | 99.63% |