Benjamin

Benjamin is a name with biblical origins from Hebrew, which can be translated as 'son of the south'. It is composed of the ancient Hebrew words ben, meaning 'son', and jamin, which means 'south' or 'right hand'. This meaning is not literal but derives from the biblical narrative in the Book of Genesis.

What does the name Benjamin mean?

The name Benjamin comes from the Bible and means 'son of the south'. It is composed of the ancient Hebrew words ben for 'son' and jamin for 'south' or 'right hand'. Another meaning, which is biblically derived, is 'the youngest' or 'youngest son', as Benjamin was the last son of Jacob. For this reason, in some families, the last-born son is often called 'Benjamin', even if he has a different name. The name is commonly used internationally and is prevalent in Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. In Spain, it is written as Benjamín and in Turkish as Bünyamin. Benjamin has been one of the most sought-after first names in Germany for many years. However, the short form Ben is particularly popular, ranking among the most common baby names in recent years.

Where does the name Benjamin come from?

The name Benjamin has its roots in the Hebrew Ben-Jamin, where 'ben' means 'son' and 'jamin' means 'south' or 'right hand'.

How do you pronounce Benjamin?

The pronunciation of the name Benjamin is three to four syllables and has a harmonious rhythm. In German, it is usually pronounced as 'Ben-ja-min' [ˈbɛnjaˌmiːn], with the last syllable having a long 'i' that creates a clear sound. The gentle combination of consonants in the middle ensures a smooth transition. Benjamin has a friendly yet traditional character – it appears harmonious, lively, and present.

When is the name day of Benjamin?

In the Christian faith, the name day of Benjamin is celebrated on March 31 and December 19.

Popularity

In Germany, the first name Benjamin was mostly within the top 100 to top 200 from 1921 to 1969. In some years, such as 1923 and 1924, it already made it into the top 100. During this time, it was regularly given but did not rank at the very top. From the 1970s onwards, its popularity increased significantly. Initially, it still ranked around the top 100, but in the 1980s, it reached the top 20 several times.

Nicknames & pet names

Babymin / Bangsch / Banjo / Bebimin / Ben / Benbär / Benchen / Bendziu / Bene / Beni / Benial / Benilein / Benito / Benj / Benja / Benjam / Benjamann / Benjamyn / Benjay / Benje / Benjew / Benji / Benjie / Benjo / Benjy / Benni / Benni Bennsen / Benniboy / Bennibär / Bennie / Bennilein / Benno / Benny / Bennü / Beno / Bensch / Bensche / Benyoda / Beschngo / Bestman / Bibimin / Blähjamin / Bolongo / Bonjes / Bonjo / Bonjside / Bünny / Denjamin / Gönnjamin / Jam / Jamie / Jamin / Jongo / Minibenni / Pennjamin

Similar first names

Famous people

• Benjamin "Ben" Foster (US actor)
• Benjamin (Ben) Bledsoe (singer)
• Benjamin (Ben) Géza Affleck-Boldt (US actor, director, and screenwriter (Oscar winner))
• Benjamin (Ben) Kowalewicz (singer and songwriter of the punk rock band Billy Talent)
• Benjamin Alvarado (English golfer)
• Benjamin Auer (footballer)
• Benjamin Ayres (Canadian actor)
• Benjamin Barnes (British singer & actor)
• Benjamin Becker (tennis player)
• Benjamin Berhla (German judoka)
• Benjamin Biolay (musician (*20.01.1973))
• Benjamin Blümchen (animated character (elephant))
• Benjamin Bonjour (painter from Switzerland)
• Benjamin Boyce (singer from Caught in the Act)
• Benjamin Brea (Spanish musician)
• Benjamin Britten (British composer and conductor, *1913 - †1976)
• Benjamin Burnley (singer and songwriter of the American band Breaking Benjamin)
• Benjamin Collins (British cricketer)
• Benjamin Disraeli (British writer and statesman)
• Benjamin Earl (Russian magician)