James vs Madelyn

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
Madelyn Rank #65

James is more popular, ranked #5 vs #65 for Madelyn.

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

Madelyn ___

  • Madelyn Rose
  • Madelyn Grace
  • Madelyn Claire
  • Madelyn Anne
  • Madelyn Elizabeth
  • Madelyn Kate

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose James

Charlotte Olivia Emma William Henry

If you choose Madelyn

Sophie Charlotte Benjamin Elijah Olivia

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 Madelyn more popular?

James is more popular, ranked #5 compared to Madelyn at #65 in the United States.

What do James and Madelyn mean?

James means "supplanter, one who follows at the heel" (Hebrew origin). Madelyn means "high tower, elevated" (Greek origin).

Are James and Madelyn boy or girl names?

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

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