Etymology & Historical Origin of the Baby Name Jaime
Jaime is the Spanish and Portuguese equivalent of James. James is ultimately derived from the ancient Hebrew “Yaakov” which is the origin of the name Jacob, traditionally thought to be derived from the word "akev" - which literally translates to "at the heel". In Genesis 25:26, Jacob was born the younger twin to Isaac and Rebecca and he "came out with his hand holding Esau's heel, so his name was called Jacob." The Lord told Rebecca that the younger would be stronger, and that the older would serve the younger. As the Biblical story progresses, the cunning Jacob eventually supplants his older brother by stealing his birthright and his father's blessing. "Is he not rightly named Jacob?" Esau asks in Genesis 27:36. "For he has supplanted me these two times." Therefore, the name Jacob is also associated with the verb ‘to supplant.’ The Greek form of the name Jacob (Iakobos) was given to the Latin (Iacomus) which eventually got anglicized to James. Sounds strange, but this is how languages mutated over time and geographical space. Historically it was thought that James and Jacob were two distinct names, but most etymologists would now agree James came from Jacob (even though the New Testament features two Disciples of Christ with the name James). In the Spanish language, the name Jacob also evolved into several names: Diego, Santiago and Jaime are all derivatives of James/Jacob. This name is a particularly interesting example within the study of linguistics. James, Seamus, Diego, Jaime all came from one name: Jacob – and yet they are all so unique sounding unto themselves. Jaime is currently a high ranking name in Spain (45th most popular in 2010). Alternately, Jaime is sometimes considered a variant of the English Jamie, a pet form of James (in which case it would be pronounced JAY-mee). Lastly, the name could be associated with the French phrase “j'aime” meaning ‘I love’. From a historic perspective, however, Jaime is essentially a masculine Spanish and Portuguese name (pronounced ZHIEM by the Portuguese) which has its etymological roots in Jacob/James.
All About the Baby Name – Jaime
Personality
OF THE BOY NAME JAIME
The Number 2 personality in numerology is all about cooperation and balance. It's the number of diplomats and mediators. They are not leaders, but strive rather for harmony in partnerships. These are the peacemakers. Equality and fairness are important in their dealings, and they are willing to share power and responsibility to achieve a harmonious outcome. This personality is calm and patient, waiting for things to evolve instead of pushing aggressively for an outcome. They are good-natured and easy-going, and care deeply on an emotional and spiritual plane. Twos appreciate beauty and nature and are intent on making the world a better place.
Popularity
OF THE BOY NAME JAIME
Both Diego and Santiago are the more popular Spanish masculine names in the United States compared to Jaime right now. Jaime first appeared on the American male naming charts in 1942. The name slowly increased in usage mirroring the substantial increase in the Spanish-speaking population of the United States in the latter decades of the 20th century. However, we are starting to see the same pattern with most Spanish-specific names: a recent decline in usage as we’ve entered the 21st century. The general belief is that as second and third generation Latino-Americans are assimilating into American society, they are adopting the “Americanized” modern trends of baby naming practices. Many are leaving their Spanish naming heritages behind. It’s sad to see because the diversity of people and ethnic cultures is what makes America great. Jaime is a darling name for a boy. It’s upbeat, energetic and friendly. And keeping the Biblical story in mind, you may want to be careful about naming your second son Jaime. Or at least don’t name your first son Esau!
Quick Facts
ON JAIME
GENDER:
Boy
ORIGIN:
Spanish
NUMBER OF SYLLABLES:
2
RANKING POPULARITY:
427
PRONUNCIATION:
HIE-may
SIMPLE MEANING:
At the heel; The Supplanter
Characteristics
OF JAIME
