Clem vs James

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Clem

Boy #9,809 Most Popular 1 Syllable

Meaning

"mild, merciful"

Origin: Latin clemens

Cultural Roots

English American French German

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#9,809
Total SSA Count
9
Syllables
1
Formality
Casual

Playground Safety Score

✓ All Clear
Full profile for Clem →

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

Clem Rank #9,809
James Rank #5

James is more popular, ranked #5 vs #9809 for Clem.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

Clem ___

  • Clem James
  • Clem Arthur
  • Clem Henry
  • Clem George
  • Clem Edward
  • Clem Owen

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 Clem

Archie Ned Len Bess Kit

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 Clem or James more popular?

James is more popular, ranked #5 compared to Clem at #9809 in the United States.

What do Clem and James mean?

Clem means "mild, merciful" (Latin clemens origin). James means "supplanter, one who follows at the heel" (Hebrew origin).

Are Clem and James boy or girl names?

Clem is primarily a boy name. James is primarily a boy name.

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