James vs Lyric

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
Lyric Rank #594

James is more popular, ranked #5 vs #594 for Lyric.

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

Lyric ___

  • Lyric Rose
  • Lyric Jade
  • Lyric Grace
  • Lyric Dawn
  • Lyric Faye
  • Lyric Claire

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose James

Charlotte Olivia Emma William Henry

If you choose Lyric

Melody Harmony Sonata River Phoenix

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 Lyric more popular?

James is more popular, ranked #5 compared to Lyric at #594 in the United States.

What do James and Lyric mean?

James means "supplanter, one who follows at the heel" (Hebrew origin). Lyric means "of the lyre, musical expression" (Greek lyrikos origin).

Are James and Lyric boy or girl names?

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

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