James vs Laurel

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 →

Laurel

Girl #727 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"laurel tree; bay laurel"

Origin: Latin

Cultural Roots

English American French Italian

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#727
Total SSA Count
386
Syllables
2
Formality
Moderate
Nicknames
Laur, Laurie, Lauri

Playground Safety Score

✓ All Clear
Full profile for Laurel →

Popularity Comparison

James Rank #5
Laurel Rank #727

James is more popular, ranked #5 vs #727 for Laurel.

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

Laurel ___

  • Laurel Ann
  • Laurel Jean
  • Laurel Marie
  • Laurel Kate
  • Laurel Grace
  • Laurel Hope

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose James

Charlotte Olivia Emma William Henry

If you choose Laurel

Ivy Violet Hazel Rowan Iris

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 Laurel more popular?

James is more popular, ranked #5 compared to Laurel at #727 in the United States.

What do James and Laurel mean?

James means "supplanter, one who follows at the heel" (Hebrew origin). Laurel means "laurel tree; bay laurel" (Latin origin).

Are James and Laurel boy or girl names?

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

More Comparisons

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