James vs Melody

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
Melody Rank #91

James is more popular, ranked #5 vs #91 for Melody.

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

Melody ___

  • Melody Grace
  • Melody Rose
  • Melody Jean
  • Melody Anne
  • Melody Claire
  • Melody Joy

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose James

Charlotte Olivia Emma William Henry

If you choose Melody

Harmony Aria Lyric Chloe Lily

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 Melody more popular?

James is more popular, ranked #5 compared to Melody at #91 in the United States.

What do James and Melody mean?

James means "supplanter, one who follows at the heel" (Hebrew origin). Melody means "song, tune, music" (Greek (melodia) origin).

Are James and Melody boy or girl names?

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

More Comparisons

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