Boy name · Hebrew
Benjamin
“son of the right hand”
Vibes
Common nicknames
Short-forms and diminutives parents often use for Benjamin.
Explore Benjamin further
Similar-feel alternatives, or middle-name candidates that pair well with Benjamin — both ranked by the same scoring system (vibe overlap, syllable rhythm, origin compatibility).
About the name
Benjamin is the Hebrew Binyamin — "son of the right hand," the favored side — the youngest and most beloved of Jacob's twelve sons. The name carries that cherished-child warmth at its core.
A Puritan favorite that gave America Benjamin Franklin, the name has never strayed far from the mainstream and holds ninth place in 2024. It is one of the few long biblical names that never needed rescuing — steady across three centuries of fashion cycles.
Benjamin's four syllables carry real ceremony, while Ben delivers instant everyday ease — one of the best formal-to-casual ranges in the book. It pairs well with short, strong middles (Benjamin Cole, Benjamin Wolf) that offset its length. On our vibe map it bridges Heirloom and Vintage Elegant: a name with a family-tree feel even when it starts a brand-new tree.
More Hebrew names
Benjamin sits in our Hebrew set — these share its roots.
All Hebrew names →Benjamin — common questions
Is Benjamin a boy or girl name?
Benjamin is traditionally a boy name of Hebrew origin. It ranked #11 among US boys' names in 2025.
What does the name Benjamin mean?
Benjamin means “son of the right hand” of Hebrew origin. Benjamin is the Hebrew Binyamin — "son of the right hand," the favored side — the youngest and most beloved of Jacob's twelve sons. The name carries that cherished-child warmth at its core.
Where does the name Benjamin come from?
Benjamin is Hebrew in origin. A Puritan favorite that gave America Benjamin Franklin, the name has never strayed far from the mainstream and holds ninth place in 2024. It is one of the few long biblical names that never needed rescuing — steady across three centuries of fashion cycles.
What are common nicknames for Benjamin?
Ben, Benny, Benji, and Benjy — the short-forms parents most often use for Benjamin.
How popular is Benjamin?
Benjamin ranked #11 in US Social Security Administration data for 2025, which puts it solidly in everyday use.
Bring the name into the room
A couple of nice things named Benjamin you might want for the nursery.