Holding steady, #10,107 for girls today.
Popularity of Besan since 2008
Babies named Besan per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 2000s | 8 |
| 2010s | 78 |
| 2020s | 39 |
Meaning & origin
Besan is a rare and delicate name that first entered U.S. birth records in 2008. Its highest rank was 10,107 in 2025, and its peak year of use was 2014, though it has never been common. The name's popularity trajectory has been stable, with no significant resurgence. It is likely of Arabic origin, possibly meaning 'smile' or 'happiness', but this derivation is not firmly attested. The name has not been recorded in any top states, indicating extremely localized usage. As a modern and uncommon choice, Besan appeals to parents seeking a distinctive name with a gentle sound and positive connotations.
Besan is a name of uncertain origin. It may be a variant of the Arabic name Basan, or a modern coinage based on the Arabic word 'besan' meaning 'smile' or 'happiness'. The name first appeared in U.S. records in 2008, and its usage has remained rare. Its popularity peaked in 2014, but it has since declined. The meaning is often given as 'smile' in baby name contexts, though historical or religious references are absent.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Bes, Sani
Variants: Basan, Bessan
Sibling names for Besan
Names that share Besan's style, for a brother or sister.
