James vs Makana

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
Makana Rank #5,519

James is more popular, ranked #5 vs #5519 for Makana.

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

Makana ___

  • Makana James
  • Makana Kai
  • Makana Levi
  • Makana Cole
  • Makana Ridge
  • Makana River

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose James

Charlotte Olivia Emma William Henry

If you choose Makana

Kai Leilani Keone Nalani Koa

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 Makana more popular?

James is more popular, ranked #5 compared to Makana at #5519 in the United States.

What do James and Makana mean?

James means "supplanter, one who follows at the heel" (Hebrew origin). Makana means "gift" (Hawaiian origin).

Are James and Makana boy or girl names?

James is primarily a boy name. Makana is primarily a boy name.

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