William vs James

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

William

Boy #10 Most Popular 3 Syllables

"resolute protector, strong-willed guardian"

Origin: Germanic

English German French

✓ All Clear

Boy #5 Most Popular 1 Syllable

"supplanter, one who follows at the heel"

Origin: Hebrew

English Scottish Biblical

✓ All Clear

William Rank #10

James Rank #5

James is more popular, ranked #5 vs #10 for William.

Is William or James more popular?

James is more popular, ranked #5 compared to William at #10 in the United States.

What do William and James mean?

William means "resolute protector, strong-willed guardian" (Germanic origin). James means "supplanter, one who follows at the heel" (Hebrew origin).

Are William and James boy or girl names?

William is primarily a boy name. James is primarily a boy name.