3 Common Names and Their Origins and Meanings

All names have origins and meanings. If yours or someone else's name is listed below, you can find out where it comes from

1. James

Derived from the Hebrew "Jacob," James means "supplanter" or "one who follows." A Scottish name, it has been used countless times for various kings. The name is most commonly used for boys, but it has since gained popularity as a girl's name as well. It also has been in the top 10 most popular names for decades. You're likely to see it everywhere from touristy souvenirs to custom name leather belts.

2. Michael

Like "James" above, this name also has Hebrew origins. Michael means "one who is like God." In the Bible, it is also the name of one of God's archangels. There are versions of this name in nearly every language, from "Miguel" in Spanish to "Mihail" in Romanian. The name has been spread widely and can be found being used by celebrities to the average boy next door.

3. John

John is a shortening of the Hebrew name "Yohanan" and means "graced by God." It can be found multiple times in the Bible, though this is mostly due to translators substituting certain names for others. Most people believe that "John" is a shortening of "Jonathan," but they're actually two separate names. The latter means "given by God" and is derived from the Hebrew "Yonatan." You can find John taking up multiple sections of the phone book and on the business cards and resumes of countless individuals. It remained in the top five names for most of the 1900s in America.

If you want to give a James, John, or Michael in your life an excellent gift, consider presenting an item that has his or her name stamped on front. You can also get such a customized piece for yourself.