Seamus

Seamus is an Irish form of the name James, which ultimately derives from the Hebrew name Ya'aqov (Jacob). The name Jacob means 'supplanter' or 'one who follows on another's heels'.

In the biblical story, Jacob was born holding onto the heel of his twin brother Esau, hence the meaning 'supplanter'. The name became popular among Christians due to two important New Testament figures named James, including one of Jesus' apostles.

The Irish form Seamus developed from the Norman French version of the name, Jacques. Over time, it evolved into the Gaelic pronunciation and spelling of Seamus, which has been a traditional Irish name for centuries.

While Seamus is the anglicized spelling, the Irish Gaelic spelling is Séamas. The name is still widely used in Ireland and has enjoyed broader popularity in English-speaking countries as well.