James vs Keir

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

James Rank #5
Keir Rank #6,610

James is more popular, ranked #5 vs #6610 for Keir.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

James ___

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

Keir ___

  • Keir Alexander
  • Keir James
  • Keir Douglas
  • Keir Alistair
  • Keir Malcolm
  • Keir Fraser

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose James

Charlotte Olivia Emma William Henry

If you choose Keir

Callum Hamish Angus Isla Morag

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 James or Keir more popular?

James is more popular, ranked #5 compared to Keir at #6610 in the United States.

What do James and Keir mean?

James means "supplanter, one who follows at the heel" (Hebrew origin). Keir means "dark one, dark-complexioned" (Scottish Gaelic ciar origin).

Are James and Keir boy or girl names?

James is primarily a boy name. Keir is primarily a boy name.

More Comparisons

Keir vs James James vs Dean James vs Mason James vs Parker James vs Carlos
← Full profile: James ← Full profile: Keir Browse all baby names