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Bentley Unisex

Popularity: #193 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationBENT-lee / /ˈbɛntli/

English; Old English

Meaning

English: Bent grass meadow; Old English: From the bent grass field

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Bentley originates from Old English, derived from the elements "bent," meaning "bent grass" or "meadow," and "leah," meaning "woodland" or "clearing." This etymological combination suggests a geographical reference to a clearing in a grassy area, indicative of the name's roots in nature and landscape. The name was first recorded in England as a surname in the medieval period, particularly in the 12th century, and it gradually transitioned into use as a given name over the following centuries, particularly in the 19th century as surnames began to be adopted as first names in English-speaking cultures.

Historically, the name Bentley is associated with several notable figures and places. One significant milestone is the establishment of Bentley as a surname in the Domesday Book of 1086, which recorded landholdings in England after the Norman Conquest. The name is also linked to various locations in England, such as Bentley in Hampshire and Bentley in West Midlands, which further solidified its geographical significance. Additionally, the name has been borne by various historical figures, including Bentley, the 18th-century English scholar Richard Bentley, who was known for his work in classical scholarship and textual criticism.

Culturally, Bentley has resonated through its associations with the English gentry and landed aristocracy, often evoking images of pastoral landscapes and traditional English heritage. The name has been embraced in literature and popular culture, contributing to its enduring presence. The diminutive form "Ben" has also emerged from Bentley, providing a more casual alternative while retaining the name's historical roots. Overall, Bentley encapsulates a rich tapestry of linguistic history, geographical significance, and cultural associations that have contributed to its lasting legacy.

Trend Summary

Bentley has seen a significant rise in popularity in the United States over the past two decades.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Bentlee
  • Bentley

International Variants

Famous people named Bentley

Bentley Little is an author best known for The Store, The Association, and The Walking.

Fictional characters named Bentley

Bentley is a fictional character from the video game series Sly Cooper. He is a genius turtle and the team's strategist, known for his technical skills and inventions.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Bentley was first seen in the United States in 1890. Bentley has ranked as high as #107 nationally, which occurred in 2012, and has been most popular in Texas, Ohio, California, Florida, and Tennessee. In the past 5 years the name Bentley has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Bentley (2024)

StateBirthsShare
OH 120
7%
TX 113
7%
TN 88
5%
KY 78
5%
IN 73
4%
PA 69
4%
NY 66
4%
FL 66
4%
IL 65
4%
MO 63
4%
MI 61
4%
GA 59
3%
CA 58
3%
NC 56
3%
WI 51
3%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18906
19119
19136
19145
19156
191615
191714
191814
191914
192011
192115
192213
192312
192416
192516
192618
192717
19287
192913
193015
19318
193210
193314
193410
193511
193613
19378
19389
193910
194014
194120
194219
194310
194414
19459
194616
194716
194814
19497
195010
19519
195217
195315
195416
195513
195618
195710
195841
195946
196044
196165
196267
196342
196450
196529
196632
196727
196821
196924
197025
197120
197217
197316
197418
197511
197622
197716
197821
197923
198022
198118
198229
198320
198418
198532
198626
198727
198831
198934
199026
199126
199224
199326
199427
199530
199627
199734
199831
199943
200039
200174
200270
200381
2004101
2005130
2006170
2007195
2008217
2009522
20103,776
20115,584
20125,895
20135,394
20144,784
20154,341
20164,069
20173,838
20183,277
20192,979
20202,589
20212,516
20222,192
20231,917
20241,776