Meaning, origin, history
Benjamin is a name of Hebrew origin that means "son of the right hand" or "favorite son." In ancient times, the right hand was considered the stronger and more powerful side, while being the favorite son meant that you were loved and favored by your parents. This name has been popular throughout history, with many notable figures bearing it.
The name Benjamin first appears in the Bible as one of the 12 sons of Jacob. He was known for his strength and intelligence, which made him a beloved figure among his brothers. In fact, his mother Rachel named him Benjamin because she believed that he would bring her much happiness, as the Hebrew word "ben" means son and "yamim" means days.
Over time, the name Benjamin has been adopted by various cultures and languages around the world. In France, for example, it is spelled Benoît and pronounced in a similar way. Meanwhile, in Spanish-speaking countries, it becomes Benito or Benjamín.
Despite its popularity throughout history, the name Benjamin remains a unique and distinctive choice today. Whether you're looking for a strong and powerful name like its biblical namesake, or simply love its sound and meaning, Benjamin is an excellent choice for your child.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Benjamine since 1880
Total births
1,806
Total since 1880
Peak year
1919
35 births
in 2018
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-77%
↘
vs previous 5 years