James vs Palmer

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
Palmer Rank #258

James is more popular, ranked #5 vs #258 for Palmer.

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

Palmer ___

  • Palmer Grace
  • Palmer Anne
  • Palmer Rose
  • Palmer Claire
  • Palmer Jane
  • Palmer Elizabeth

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose James

Charlotte Olivia Emma William Henry

If you choose Palmer

Greer Sloane Beckett Fletcher Wren

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 Palmer more popular?

James is more popular, ranked #5 compared to Palmer at #258 in the United States.

What do James and Palmer mean?

James means "supplanter, one who follows at the heel" (Hebrew origin). Palmer means "pilgrim, palm-bearer" (Middle English origin).

Are James and Palmer boy or girl names?

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

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