Bensen is a name of Scandinavian origin, derived from the Old Norse words "bjorn" meaning bear and "bjornar" meaning son of a bear. It is believed to have been brought to England by Viking settlers during their invasions between the 8th and 11th centuries.
The name Bensen has a strong and powerful connotation due to its association with the mighty bear. Throughout history, bears have been symbols of strength, courage, and protectiveness in many cultures, including those of Scandinavia.
In Norse mythology, the god Odin was often depicted as a bear or associated with bears, further emphasizing the name's connection to power and strength. The name Bensen may have also been influenced by the Old English word "bearn" meaning cub, which could suggest nurturing and care in addition to its more aggressive associations.
The name Bensen is not particularly common, but it has appeared in various forms throughout history. In medieval England, for instance, there was a knight named Berne de Bernières who fought in the Crusades. The name has also been used by several notable figures over the centuries, such as American poet Ezra Pound's maternal grandfather, Bensen Franklin.
Today, Bensen is still primarily found among individuals of Scandinavian descent or those with ties to Scandinavian culture and heritage. However, it remains a unique and memorable name that continues to evoke images of strength, power, and ancient mythology.
The name Benson has seen varied popularity over the years in the United States, with a total of 347 babies being named Benson between 2004 and 2023. The most popular year for the name was 2021, with 22 births. Interestingly, the name also saw high popularity in 2015 and 2016, with 31 births each year. However, there were years like 2004 and 2005 where only 5 babies were named Benson. Overall, while the name Benson may not be among the most popular choices, it has consistently been given to a significant number of newborns annually in the United States over the past two decades.