James vs Meghan

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
Meghan Rank #1,444

James is more popular, ranked #5 vs #1444 for Meghan.

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

Meghan ___

  • Meghan Rose
  • Meghan Grace
  • Meghan Anne
  • Meghan Louise
  • Meghan Kate
  • Meghan Claire

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose James

Charlotte Olivia Emma William Henry

If you choose Meghan

Deirdre Bridget Caitlin Rowan Declan

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 Meghan more popular?

James is more popular, ranked #5 compared to Meghan at #1444 in the United States.

What do James and Meghan mean?

James means "supplanter, one who follows at the heel" (Hebrew origin). Meghan means "pearl" (Greek via Welsh origin).

Are James and Meghan boy or girl names?

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

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