Angus vs James

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Angus

Boy #2,162 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"one strength, unique strength"

Origin: Scottish Gaelic

Cultural Roots

Scottish Irish Celtic

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#2,162
Total SSA Count
68
Syllables
2
Formality
Moderate
Nicknames
Gus

Playground Safety Score

All Clear

James

Boy #5 Most Popular 1 Syllable

Meaning

"supplanter, one who follows at the heel"

Origin: Hebrew

Cultural Roots

English Scottish Biblical

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#5
Total SSA Count
11,793
Syllables
1
Formality
Formal
Nicknames
Jim, Jimmy, Jamie

Playground Safety Score

All Clear

Popularity Comparison

Angus Rank #2,162
James Rank #5

James is more popular, ranked #5 vs #2162 for Angus.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

Angus ___

  • Angus James
  • Angus William
  • Angus Duncan
  • Angus Alasdair
  • Angus Murdoch

James ___

  • James Alexander
  • James William
  • James Thomas
  • James Edward
  • James Henry
  • James Patrick

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose Angus

Hamish Catriona Isla Fergus Morag

If you choose James

Charlotte Olivia Emma William Henry

Which Name Fits Your Family?

Answer 3 quick questions and we'll help you decide.

1. Which style feels more like your family?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Angus or James more popular?

James is more popular, ranked #5 compared to Angus at #2162 in the United States.

What do Angus and James mean?

Angus means "one strength, unique strength" (Scottish Gaelic origin). James means "supplanter, one who follows at the heel" (Hebrew origin).

Are Angus and James boy or girl names?

Angus is primarily a boy name. James is primarily a boy name.

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