Bentley is an English name of Norman origin that has been used in England for centuries. It comes from the Old French word "bende," which means "bend" or "corner." The name was originally given to people who lived near a bend in a river or road, or who were born with a crooked appearance.
The name Bentley became more popular in the 19th century when it was adopted as a surname by several prominent families. It was also used as a first name during this time, but it remained relatively uncommon until the mid-20th century.
Today, Bentley is still considered an English name, but it has gained popularity around the world. It is often associated with luxury cars, as the British automobile company Rolls-Royce Motor Cars uses the name Bentley for its high-end vehicles. Despite this connection, the name's meaning and history are not related to cars in any way.
Bentley is a strong, distinctive name that can be used for boys or girls. It has a modern sound while also having a long history of use. Its meaning adds an interesting element to the name, as it suggests adaptability and resilience, perhaps due to its association with bends and corners. Overall, Bentley is a unique and appealing choice for parents looking for a name that combines tradition and modernity.
The name Bentley has been consistently used as a given name for newborns in the United States over the past decade. Between 2007 and 2019, there were a total of 150 babies born with the name Bentley across the country.
The years with the highest number of Bentley births were 2010 and 2011, with 23 and 25 babies respectively. This could indicate that the name gained popularity during this period. However, it is important to note that these figures represent a very small percentage of total births in the United States each year.
Despite fluctuations in its usage over time, Bentley remains a unique and distinctive name choice for parents looking to give their child a memorable moniker.