Charles vs James

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Charles

Boy #51 Most Popular 2 Syllables

"free man"

Origin: Germanic

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Boy #5 Most Popular 1 Syllable

"supplanter, one who follows at the heel"

Origin: Hebrew

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Charles Rank #51

James Rank #5

James is more popular, ranked #5 vs #51 for Charles.

Is Charles or James more popular?

James is more popular, ranked #5 compared to Charles at #51 in the United States.

What do Charles and James mean?

Charles means "free man" (Germanic origin). James means "supplanter, one who follows at the heel" (Hebrew origin).

Are Charles and James boy or girl names?

Charles is primarily a boy name. James is primarily a boy name.