Benson Boy
Origin(s)
PronunciationBEN-sun / ˈbɛn.sənEnglish; Scandinavian
Meaning
Son of Ben; son of the blessed one
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Benson has its roots in Old English, derived from the personal name "Ben" combined with the suffix "-son," meaning "son of Ben." The name Ben itself is a diminutive form of Benjamin, which originates from the Hebrew name "Binyamin," meaning "son of the right hand." This Hebrew name made its way into Greek as "Beniamin" and later into Latin as "Beniaminus," before evolving into various forms in Old French and Middle English, ultimately leading to the modern English surname Benson. The transition into English occurred around the 12th century, as surnames began to be adopted more widely in England, often reflecting lineage or familial connections.
Historically, the name Benson has been associated with notable figures, including various English landowners and nobles during the medieval period. It appears in records from the 13th century, with individuals bearing the surname involved in local governance and land management. The name is also linked to the biblical figure Benjamin, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, which adds a layer of historical significance and cultural resonance, particularly within Judeo-Christian contexts. The King James Bible, published in the early 17th century, further popularized the name Benjamin, thereby indirectly enhancing the visibility of its derivative forms, including Benson.
Culturally, the name Benson has been embraced in various literary and artistic works, often symbolizing strength and familial ties. The use of the suffix "-son" in English surnames typically denotes lineage, which has contributed to the name's enduring presence in English-speaking cultures. Additionally, the diminutive form "Ben" has become widely recognized and used independently, reflecting the name's adaptability and continued relevance through the centuries.
Trend Summary
Benson has seen a steady increase in popularity in the United States over the past few decades.
Similar Names
Variants
- Benson
International Variants
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Famous people named Benson
Benson Henderson is a mixed martial artist best known for competing in the UFC and WEC, and being a former WEC Lightweight Champion.
Benson Lee is a filmmaker best known for his work on the documentaries Planet B-Boy and the series The Last Dance.
Fictional characters named Benson
Benson is a fictional character from the TV series Benson. He is the wise and capable butler who manages the household of Governor Gatling while navigating various political and personal challenges.
Benson Dubois is a fictional character from the animated series The Owl House. They are a skilled and resourceful witch who plays a significant role in helping the main characters navigate their adventures.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Benson was first seen in the United States in 1887. Benson has ranked as high as #766 nationally, which occurred in 2016, and has been most popular in California, Utah, New York, Texas, and Ohio. In the past 5 years the name Benson has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Benson (2024)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
UT | 44 | |
CA | 42 | |
OH | 41 | |
TX | 35 | |
WA | 29 | |
PA | 29 | |
WI | 28 | |
IN | 27 | |
MO | 26 | |
MI | 26 | |
FL | 25 | |
MN | 24 | |
IA | 22 | |
NY | 21 | |
NC | 20 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1887 | 9 |
1888 | 5 |
1889 | 9 |
1892 | 6 |
1895 | 6 |
1897 | 5 |
1898 | 5 |
1903 | 6 |
1904 | 7 |
1905 | 5 |
1908 | 9 |
1909 | 7 |
1910 | 5 |
1911 | 7 |
1912 | 21 |
1913 | 15 |
1914 | 24 |
1915 | 39 |
1916 | 68 |
1917 | 47 |
1918 | 31 |
1919 | 28 |
1920 | 43 |
1921 | 39 |
1922 | 43 |
1923 | 36 |
1924 | 43 |
1925 | 45 |
1926 | 35 |
1927 | 35 |
1928 | 35 |
1929 | 42 |
1930 | 30 |
1931 | 39 |
1932 | 27 |
1933 | 17 |
1934 | 29 |
1935 | 29 |
1936 | 29 |
1937 | 37 |
1938 | 30 |
1939 | 23 |
1940 | 23 |
1941 | 34 |
1942 | 44 |
1943 | 38 |
1944 | 37 |
1945 | 34 |
1946 | 36 |
1947 | 44 |
1948 | 52 |
1949 | 46 |
1950 | 39 |
1951 | 42 |
1952 | 50 |
1953 | 46 |
1954 | 51 |
1955 | 39 |
1956 | 48 |
1957 | 60 |
1958 | 46 |
1959 | 39 |
1960 | 25 |
1961 | 45 |
1962 | 43 |
1963 | 47 |
1964 | 43 |
1965 | 30 |
1966 | 39 |
1967 | 50 |
1968 | 46 |
1969 | 64 |
1970 | 49 |
1971 | 42 |
1972 | 46 |
1973 | 51 |
1974 | 42 |
1975 | 40 |
1976 | 36 |
1977 | 65 |
1978 | 59 |
1979 | 79 |
1980 | 62 |
1981 | 53 |
1982 | 53 |
1983 | 47 |
1984 | 52 |
1985 | 59 |
1986 | 61 |
1987 | 38 |
1988 | 58 |
1989 | 57 |
1990 | 77 |
1991 | 58 |
1992 | 63 |
1993 | 72 |
1994 | 72 |
1995 | 60 |
1996 | 65 |
1997 | 50 |
1998 | 60 |
1999 | 66 |
2000 | 76 |
2001 | 75 |
2002 | 102 |
2003 | 102 |
2004 | 130 |
2005 | 134 |
2006 | 160 |
2007 | 174 |
2008 | 171 |
2009 | 193 |
2010 | 260 |
2011 | 314 |
2012 | 433 |
2013 | 446 |
2014 | 528 |
2015 | 631 |
2016 | 729 |
2017 | 625 |
2018 | 621 |
2019 | 566 |
2020 | 514 |
2021 | 479 |
2022 | 428 |
2023 | 454 |
2024 | 727 |