Alan vs James

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Alan

Boy #167 Most Popular 2 Syllables

"handsome"

Origin: Celtic

English Scottish French Breton

✓ All Clear

Boy #5 Most Popular 1 Syllable

"supplanter, one who follows at the heel"

Origin: Hebrew

English Scottish Biblical

✓ All Clear

Alan Rank #167

James Rank #5

James is more popular, ranked #5 vs #167 for Alan.

Is Alan or James more popular?

James is more popular, ranked #5 compared to Alan at #167 in the United States.

What do Alan and James mean?

Alan means "handsome" (Celtic origin). James means "supplanter, one who follows at the heel" (Hebrew origin).

Are Alan and James boy or girl names?

Alan is primarily a boy name. James is primarily a boy name.