James vs Rees

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

Popularity Comparison

James Rank #5
Rees Rank #6,353

James is more popular, ranked #5 vs #6353 for Rees.

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

Rees ___

  • Rees James
  • Rees Thomas
  • Rees William
  • Rees Owen
  • Rees Arthur
  • Rees Morgan

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose James

Charlotte Olivia Emma William Henry

If you choose Rees

Griffith Owen Emrys Seren Bronwen

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 Rees more popular?

James is more popular, ranked #5 compared to Rees at #6353 in the United States.

What do James and Rees mean?

James means "supplanter, one who follows at the heel" (Hebrew origin). Rees means "enthusiasm, ardor, passion" (Old Welsh origin).

Are James and Rees boy or girl names?

James is primarily a boy name. Rees is primarily a boy name.

More Comparisons