Hercules 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

Hercules Rank #6,603
James Rank #5

James is more popular, ranked #5 vs #6603 for Hercules.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

Hercules ___

  • Hercules James
  • Hercules Thomas
  • Hercules Stone
  • Hercules Magnus
  • Hercules Victor
  • Hercules Rex

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 Hercules

Achilles Leonidas Perseus Thalia Athena

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 Hercules or James more popular?

James is more popular, ranked #5 compared to Hercules at #6603 in the United States.

What do Hercules and James mean?

Hercules means "glory of Hera" (Greek origin). James means "supplanter, one who follows at the heel" (Hebrew origin).

Are Hercules and James boy or girl names?

Hercules is primarily a boy name. James is primarily a boy name.

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