Rising since 2015, #1,002 for boys today.
Popularity of Benito since 1880
Babies named Benito per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 12 |
| 1890s | 40 |
| 1900s | 93 |
| 1910s | 372 |
| 1920s | 969 |
| 1930s | 909 |
| 1940s | 1,056 |
| 1950s | 1,317 |
| 1960s | 1,383 |
| 1970s | 1,602 |
| 1980s | 1,581 |
| 1990s | 1,807 |
| 2000s | 1,554 |
| 2010s | 1,011 |
| 2020s | 1,067 |
Meaning & origin
Benito is a name with deep historical roots, derived from the Latin Benedictus meaning 'blessed'. It has been used in Italian and Spanish cultures for centuries, associated with saints and religious tradition. In the United States, its popularity declined after the mid-20th century but has been rising again since 2015, reaching a rank of 1002 in 2025. That year, it was given to approximately 1 in 7,558 boys, with the highest relative usage in New Mexico, Oklahoma, and California. Its peak year in modern times is 2025, indicating growing appeal among parents seeking a classic, international name.
Benito is derived from the Late Latin name Benedictus, meaning 'blessed'. It has been used in Italy and Spain since the Middle Ages, notably as the name of several saints, including Saint Benedict of Nursia. In Spanish and Italian cultures, it is a traditional name with religious significance.
Where Benito is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Ben, Benny
Sibling names for Benito
Names that share Benito's style, for a brother or sister.
