The name James comes from the Hebrew name Yaakov (Jacob), which means “supplanter” or “one who takes by the heel”. The name has been used for centuries and has many historical connections. Etymology Hebrew: The name comes from the Hebrew name Yaakov.Latin: The name became Iacomus in Latin.Old French: The name came into the English-speaking world through Old French.English: The name became James in English.HistoryThe name James appears in the Bible, where it was the name of two of Jesus’s apostles and the brother of Jesus. The name became popular in English-speaking countries due to the influence of King James VI of Scotland and James I of England. The name has been given to kings, presidents, entertainers, and regular people. VariationsThe name has many spelling variations, including Fitzjames, St. James, Jaimes, and Geames. The name has many diminutives, including Jim, Jimmy, Jimmie, Jimmi, Jimi, Jimbo, Jem, Jemmy, Jamie, Jamey, and Jay.