Based on U.S. Social Security card application data as of the end of February 2016, the most popular name for a male child born during 1916 through 2015 (last 100 years) is James. Also, note that all names used are from Social Security card applications for births that occurred in the United States. And, many people born before 1937 never applied for a Social Security card, so their names are not included in the data pool. The highest recorded use of the name "James" was in 1947 with a total of 94,755 babies.

With this popular name (James), James in English comes from the Greek name Iakobos, and Iakobos comes from the Hebrew name Jacob. The name Jacob comes from the Hebrew verb (aqab) meaning to take by the heel or supplant. The name James however does not mean anything. But, it is routinely held that men named James are honest, benevolent, brilliant and often inventive, full of high inspirations. They are courageous, honest, determined, original and creative. They are leaders especially for a cause. Sometimes they do not care to finish what they start, and may leave details to others. Men named James can do well in position of authority, and prospers in intellectual and professional fields. They are considered bold, inquisitive, independent and interested in research. They know what they want and why they want it. Accordingly, parents pick the name James because it represents many positive characteristics and attributes that they want their child to possess.

More Info: www.ssa.gov