Arlene vs James

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

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
Full profile for James →

Popularity Comparison

Arlene Rank #1,817
James Rank #5

James is more popular, ranked #5 vs #1817 for Arlene.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

Arlene ___

  • Arlene Marie
  • Arlene Rose
  • Arlene Jean
  • Arlene Ann
  • Arlene Louise
  • Arlene Kay

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 Arlene

Shirley Beverly Donna Gary Dennis

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 Arlene or James more popular?

James is more popular, ranked #5 compared to Arlene at #1817 in the United States.

What do Arlene and James mean?

Arlene means "pledge, oath" (Irish/Gaelic origin). James means "supplanter, one who follows at the heel" (Hebrew origin).

Are Arlene and James boy or girl names?

Arlene is primarily a girl name. James is primarily a boy name.

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← Full profile: Arlene ← Full profile: James Browse all baby names