James vs Rhys

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
Rhys Rank #354

James is more popular, ranked #5 vs #354 for Rhys.

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

Rhys ___

  • Rhys Owen
  • Rhys Liam
  • Rhys David
  • Rhys Morgan
  • Rhys Evan
  • Rhys Gareth

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose James

Charlotte Olivia Emma William Henry

If you choose Rhys

Seren Nia Cai Carys Bryn

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 Rhys more popular?

James is more popular, ranked #5 compared to Rhys at #354 in the United States.

What do James and Rhys mean?

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

Are James and Rhys boy or girl names?

James is primarily a boy name. Rhys is primarily a boy name.

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