Benjamin

Benjamin is a warm Hebrew classic meaning 'son of the right hand,' blending biblical heritage with the friendly, everyday nickname Ben.

What Does the Name Benjamin Mean?

Benjamin comes from the Hebrew Binyamin, meaning 'son of the right hand,' with the right hand symbolizing strength and favor. The name can also be read as 'son of the south.' It carries connotations of a cherished and favored son.

Personality & Traits

Benjamin feels warm, intelligent, and gently classic, with the easygoing nickname Ben keeping it approachable. It reads as both scholarly and friendly. Parents often value how it balances a dignified full form with a relaxed everyday name.

Nicknames & Variations

Common nicknames include Ben, Benji, Benny, and Benn. Related forms include the Hebrew Binyamin and diminutives used across many languages. Ben is popular enough to be given as a standalone name.

Is Benjamin a Good Name in 2026?

Benjamin has been a US top-ten boys' name in recent years, prized for its blend of tradition and warmth. It offers biblical depth, patriotic resonance through Franklin, and the universally friendly nickname Ben. Its popularity is high but well-earned by its lasting appeal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Benjamin a boy or girl name?

Benjamin is a boys' name.

What does the name Benjamin mean?

Benjamin means 'son of the right hand,' from the Hebrew Binyamin.

Where does the name Benjamin come from?

Benjamin is Hebrew in origin and comes from the biblical son of Jacob.

Is Benjamin a popular name?

Yes. Benjamin has been a top-ten US boys' name in recent years.

Notable people named Benjamin

Benjamin Franklin — American Founding Father (1706–1790) and a drafter and signer of the Declaration of Independence, whose studies of electricity made him a major figure of the American Enlightenment and whose inventions included the lightning rod, bifocals, and the Franklin stove.

Source: Wikipedia: Benjamin Franklin

Benjamin Netanyahu — Israeli politician (b. 1949) who has served as Prime Minister of Israel across three separate periods (1996–1999, 2009–2021, and since 2022), making him Israel's longest-serving prime minister.

Source: Wikipedia: Benjamin Netanyahu

Popularity of the name Benjamin in the US

1989 · 15,788 babies · rank #46 (55 girls, 15,733 boys)