Belen is a feminine given name of Spanish origin. It is derived from the Spanish word "belen," which means " Bethlehem." The name is often associated with the town in Palestine where Jesus Christ was born, as it is traditionally believed to be the site of his birth.
The name Belen has been used for centuries and is particularly popular in Spain and Latin America. It was commonly given to girls who were born around Christmas time or who were baptized on Christmas Day. The name is also associated with the Catholic tradition of setting up a nativity scene, known as a "belen," during the Christmas season.
In some cases, Belen may be used as a surname rather than a given name. It can be found among families with Spanish or Sephardic Jewish origins.
Despite its clear connection to Christianity and the holiday season, the name Belen does not have any specific religious or spiritual connotations beyond that association. It is simply a name that has been passed down through generations and continues to be popular today.
Overall, Belen is a unique and meaningful name with deep historical roots. Its association with Bethlehem gives it a sense of ancient significance, while its continued use in modern times makes it feel relevant and timeless.
Based on the provided statistics, the name Belen has seen a significant increase in popularity over time in the United States. Starting from just 8 births in 1909, the number of babies named Belen grew steadily over the years.
The first peak occurred around the late 1920s to early 1930s, with approximately 35 births each year between 1926 and 1930. This popularity seemed to wane slightly in the following decades, fluctuating between roughly 15 to 40 births per year from the late 1930s to the early 1970s.
However, starting in the mid-1970s, there was a notable resurgence of the name Belen. From 1976 onwards, the number of babies named Belen consistently increased each decade:
- In the 1980s, there were an average of around 75 births per year.
- In the 1990s, this increased to approximately 130 births per year.
- And in the 2000s and 2010s, the popularity of Belen continued to grow, with an average of over 300 births per year.
As of recent years, Belen has reached a peak popularity, with over 390 babies named Belen in the United States in 2022 alone. This steady growth and current popularity indicate that the name Belen continues to be a beloved choice among parents in the United States.