JAMES
James (Surname)
Origin and Meaning: The surname James is of Old French origins, derived from the given name "Jaime" which ultimately traces its roots back to the Latin name "Jacobus," meaning "supplanter" or "may God protect." The name James has been a popular given name in England, Wales, and Scotland for centuries, leading to the establishment of a significant number of families carrying the surname James.
Distribution and Popularity: The surname James is widespread throughout the United Kingdom, with concentrations particularly in England, Wales, and Scotland. As of the 19th and 20th centuries, immigration and diaspora have further spread the surname to other parts of the world, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Notable Individuals:
- Henry James (1843-1916): An American-British author known for his contributions to 19th-century literature, with notable works such as "The Turn of the Screw" and "The Portrait of a Lady."
- P.D. James (1920-2014): British author of detective fiction, best known for her series featuring detective Adam Dalgliesh.
- LeBron James: A famous American professional basketball player, considered one of the greatest in the history of the sport.
Coat of Arms: The James family crest typically features elements such as a shield with a lion rampant, a crest of a griffin, and symbols representing strength, protection, and courage.
Genealogy and Heritage: Many individuals with the surname James have traced their ancestries back through genealogical research to specific regions such as Wales, Cornwall, and various parts of England. The surname is often associated with a rich and diverse heritage that includes ties to historical events and notable figures.
Modern Influence: Today, the surname James continues to be a popular and prevalent name in British and international societies. It has maintained its significance as a familial and historical marker that connects individuals to their roots and the broader tapestry of British history and culture.
References:
Burke, Bernard. The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales. Heritage Books, 2007.
Reaney, Percy H., and Wilson, Richard M. A Dictionary of English Surnames. Oxford University Press, 2005.
There are approximately 121,760 people named James in the UK. That makes it the 37th most common surname in Britain. Around 1,870 in a million people in Britain are named James.
Surname type: From name of parent
Origin: Celtic
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: Wales
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: Welsh
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- Christopher
- David
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Richard
- Robert
- Stephen
Female
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Helen
- Julie
- Karen
- Margaret
- Mary
- Nicola
- Rebecca
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.