Benji
Benji is a boy's name of Hebrew origin.
Meaning
Son of the right hand, or son of good fortune.
Origin and history
Benji is traditionally used as a diminutive of Benjamin, derived from a Hebrew name meaning 'son of the right hand'. While historically a nickname, it has increasingly been given as an independent legal name in the United States. It offers a friendly, accessible option while retaining deep classical roots.
Popularity in the United States
2,285 babies in the United States have been named Benji since 1880. It ranks #2708 all-time. Among babies born since 2020 it ranks #1292.
States where it is most popular
- CA (27.8 %)
- TX (9.5 %)
- GA (6.5 %)
- PA (6.5 %)
- FL (6.4 %)
Trends by decade
| Decade | Births |
|---|---|
| 1880-1890 | 0 |
| 1890-1900 | 0 |
| 1900-1910 | 0 |
| 1910-1920 | 0 |
| 1920-1930 | 0 |
| 1930-1940 | 0 |
| 1940-1950 | 0 |
| 1950-1960 | 64 |
| 1960-1970 | 150 |
| 1970-1980 | 566 |
| 1980-1990 | 157 |
| 1990-2000 | 87 |
| 2000-2010 | 137 |
| 2010-2019 | 454 |
| 2020-2029 | 670 |
Famous people named Benji
- Benji Madden: Musician, Guitarist
- Benji Marshall: Athlete, Rugby Player
Fun facts
- While originally just a pet name for Benjamin, Benji has established itself as an independent given name on U.S. birth certificates.
- The name gained widespread cultural recognition in the 1970s and 1980s through the popular 'Benji' film franchise featuring a heroic mixed-breed dog.