Skip Ancestry main menu Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Explore
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

  • First Name Meanings
  • Surnames
  • Individual Records Search

Shared with you

  • Historical Insights

Tree tools

  • My Trees
  • Family Trees Support
  • Start a New Tree
  • Upload a GEDCOM
  • Family History Learning Hub
Loading
  • All Collections
  • Census & Voter Lists
  • Birth, Marriage & Death
  • Military
  • Immigration & Travel
  • Public Member Trees
  • Card Catalog
  • Member Search
Loading
    Loading
    • Register a Kit
    • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
    • Traits Learning Hub
    • AncestryDNA®
    • DNA & You
    • AncestryDNA® Support
    Loading
    • Support Center
    • Ancestry Academy
    • Community
    • Hire an expert
    • Site Status
    Loading
    • Genealogy 101
    • Fact Finding
    • DNA & You
    • Perspectives
    • Customer Stories
    • Ancestry Presents
    • Create & Connect
    Loading
    • Support Center
    • Ancestry Academy
    • Community
    • Hire an expert
    • Site Status
    • Support Center
    • Ancestry Blog
    • Site Map
    • Gift Memberships
    • Careers
    • Swag Shop
      • Ancestry Corporate
      • Fold3.com
      • ForcesWarRecords.com
      • Geneanet.org
      • Newspapers.com
      • ProGenealogists.com
      • RootsWeb.com
    • © 1997-2025 Ancestry
    • Corporate Information
    • Privacy
    • Terms and Conditions
    • CCPA Notice at Collection
    • Do not sell or share my personal information
    • Patent

    Meaning of the first name
    James

    Origin 
    Hebrew

    Meaning 
    Supplanter

    Variations 
    Jamese, Jameson, Jamel

    *Some content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, in combination with data sourced from Ancestry records and provided by BabyNames.com.

    The name James derives from the Hebrew name Yaakov, which means 'Supplanter'. It has a rich historical background and has been in use for centuries. In the Bible, James was one of the twelve apostles chosen by Jesus, making it a name of great religious significance. Additionally, it is worth noting that in the Old Testament, Jacob, another form of Yaakov, was the father of the twelve tribes of Israel. These biblical connections have cemented the name James as a symbol of strength, leadership, and divine favor. Throughout history, the name James has emerged in various forms in different cultures. In the English-speaking world, it became a prominent name due to the influence of King James VI of Scotland and James I of England. The impact of these monarchs on language and culture led to the widespread adoption of the name James. Notable historical figures bearing this name include James Madison, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, and James Cook, the renowned British explorer. In modern times, James continues to be a popular name with enduring appeal. It consistently ranks among the top names for boys in many English-speaking countries. The simplicity and strong sound of the name, along with its historical associations, make it a favored choice for parents. Furthermore, its versatility is evident in its use as both a first name and a name. From religious figures to notable historical figures and ordinary individuals, James has earned a revered place in both history and contemporary society.

    Based on our records...
    This is the most common surname, spouse name and child name associated with James.
    Smith

    is the most common surname for James.

    Mary

    is the most common spouse name for James.

    James

    is the most common child name for James.

    Start your curiosity engines.
    Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
    Free Trial
    Order Ancestry
    did_you_know_bar
    Based on our records...
    Did you know?
    1870 is when there were the most people born with the first name James.

    We'll guide you through the process of building and growing your tree

    Explore the origins of another name.