Log in · Sign up

Bennett Unisex

Popularity: #59 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Origin(s)

PronunciationBEN-it / /ˈbɛnɪt/

Latin; Old French

Meaning

Latin: blessed; Old French: little blessed one

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Bennett originates from the Latin name Benedictus, which means "blessed." This Latin form was derived from the verb "benedicere," meaning "to speak well of" or "to bless." The name entered the English language through Old French as Benoît, which was adapted into the Middle English form Benet. The transition into Bennett occurred as a patronymic surname, indicating "son of Benet," and it became established in England during the medieval period, particularly after the Norman Conquest in the 11th century, when many Latin names were introduced into the English lexicon.

Historically, the name is associated with Saint Benedict of Nursia, who lived in the 6th century and is known as the founder of the Benedictine monastic order. His Rule of Saint Benedict became a foundational text for Western monasticism, influencing religious life across Europe. The name gained further prominence through various historical figures, including several English nobles and clergy, particularly during the Middle Ages. The use of Bennett as a surname became more common in the 13th century, appearing in records and documents throughout England.

Culturally, the name Bennett has been linked to notions of blessing and favor, resonating with the Christian tradition of naming children after saints or figures associated with divine grace. The name's enduring appeal can be attributed to its positive connotations and the historical significance of its roots. Additionally, diminutive forms such as Ben have emerged, reflecting a more informal and affectionate usage. Overall, Bennett carries a rich historical and cultural legacy, rooted in its etymological origins and the influential figures associated with it.

Trend Summary

Bennett has seen a steady increase in popularity in the United States over the past two decades.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Bennette
  • Benn

International Variants

  • Benedict (Latin)
  • Benedikt (German)
  • Benedetto (Italian)

Famous people named Bennett

Bennett Miller is a director best known for Capote, Moneyball, and Foxcatcher.

Bennett Cerf was a publisher and co-founder of Random House, known for his contributions to American literature and publishing.

Bennett Foddy is a game developer best known for QWOP, Getting Over It with Bennett Foddy, and Croquet.

Bennett Briley is a musician best known for his work with the band The Drones.

Fictional characters named Bennett

Bennett is a fictional character from the video game series Resident Evil. He is a supporting character who plays a crucial role in the storyline of Resident Evil 6.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Bennett was first seen in the United States in 1880. Bennett has ranked as high as #97 nationally, which occurred in 2024, and has been most popular in California, Texas, Illinois, New York, and Minnesota. In the past 5 years the name Bennett has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Bennett (2024)

StateBirthsShare
TX 354
7%
CA 293
6%
IL 247
5%
OH 240
5%
PA 226
5%
FL 218
4%
MI 208
4%
GA 195
4%
NC 188
4%
TN 172
4%
WI 170
3%
MO 169
3%
NY 160
3%
MN 154
3%
IN 143
3%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
188015
188114
188214
18839
188413
188514
18866
188717
188815
188912
189017
18919
18928
18937
189414
18959
189618
18979
189817
189910
190016
190112
190211
190315
19048
190514
190620
190723
190819
190915
191022
191125
191244
191359
191460
191593
191679
191790
1918103
1919108
192095
192185
192299
192390
192496
1925118
1926118
1927107
192896
1929105
193084
193194
193295
1933110
1934109
193566
1936106
193785
193894
1939105
194099
194199
1942101
1943101
194499
1945105
1946131
1947126
1948136
1949140
1950133
1951144
1952144
1953144
1954184
1955207
1956221
1957231
1958197
1959235
1960204
1961194
1962214
1963225
1964189
1965127
1966137
1967115
1968109
1969112
1970110
197185
197289
197353
197463
197575
197667
197770
197875
1979110
1980120
1981117
1982124
1983132
1984140
1985162
1986165
1987161
1988203
1989249
1990225
1991231
1992239
1993218
1994245
1995263
1996322
1997392
1998449
1999436
2000542
2001503
2002555
2003594
2004646
2005734
2006817
2007826
2008863
20091,048
20101,212
20111,492
20121,911
20132,075
20142,550
20152,714
20162,942
20173,180
20183,301
20193,530
20203,601
20213,938
20224,103
20234,420
20245,095