What Does the Name Bentley Mean?
Bentley combines the Old English beonet ("bent grass," a coarse grass) with leah ("woodland" or "clearing"), together meaning "meadow with coarse grass."
The Origin & History of Bentley
First recorded as a surname in the 12th century, Bentley was originally a toponymic name for people from any of several English places called Bentley, including locations in Yorkshire, Warwickshire, and Hampshire.
Cultural Reach
As a first name, Bentley gained real momentum in the US and Canada in the early 21st century, part of a wave of surname-style names, with an extra boost from the association with the British luxury car marque.
Personality & Associations
Bentley carries a confident, upscale feel thanks to the car brand, while its underlying meaning ties it back to the English countryside rather than luxury itself.
Nicknames & Variations
Bentley is generally used as a complete name; Ben is sometimes used as an informal nickname.
Is Bentley a Good Name in 2026?
Bentley remains a strong option for parents who like confident, surname-style names with a bit of contemporary flash.