Gene vs James

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Gene

Boy #1,910 Most Popular 1 Syllable

Meaning

"well-born, of noble descent"

Origin: Greek

Cultural Roots

American English French

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#1,910
Total SSA Count
83
Syllables
1
Formality
Moderate

Playground Safety Score

15 High Risk

{:type=>:rhyme, :severity=>:medium, :message=>"'Gene' rhymes with 'mean'"}

Full profile for Gene →

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

Gene Rank #1,910
James Rank #5

James is more popular, ranked #5 vs #1910 for Gene.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

Gene ___

  • Gene Paul
  • Gene Thomas
  • Gene Michael
  • Gene Anthony
  • Gene Robert
  • Gene Lee

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 Gene

Frank Shirley Rita Roy Joan

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 Gene or James more popular?

James is more popular, ranked #5 compared to Gene at #1910 in the United States.

What do Gene and James mean?

Gene means "well-born, of noble descent" (Greek origin). James means "supplanter, one who follows at the heel" (Hebrew origin).

Are Gene and James boy or girl names?

Gene is primarily a boy name. James is primarily a boy name.

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