Bently is a unique and distinctive name of English origin. It is believed to have been derived from the Old English word "beorht" which means "bright" or "famous". This name has also been associated with the Bentley Motors Limited, a British manufacturer of luxury cars. However, it is not related to the company's name as the company was named after the Bentley village in Leicestershire, England.
The name Bently first appeared in English records during the 13th century. It was likely used as a given name at that time, but it is also possible that it was used as a surname. In fact, there are several families with the surname Bentley who can trace their lineage back to the Middle Ages.
Throughout history, the name Bently has been associated with various notable figures. One of the most famous bearers of this name is Walter Owen Bentley, the founder of Bentley Motors Limited. Born in 1884, Owen was a talented engineer and entrepreneur who built his first car, the Bentley EXP 1, in 1919. He went on to establish his company in 1920, which would become one of the world's leading luxury automakers.
Today, Bently remains a rare but distinctive name that is often chosen by parents looking for an unusual yet meaningful name for their child. Its association with brightness and fame makes it an appealing choice for those seeking a name with positive connotations. Additionally, its connection to the prestigious Bentley Motors brand may also appeal to car enthusiasts who wish to pass on this legacy to their children.
In conclusion, Bently is a unique and historic English name that carries a meaning of brightness and fame. With notable figures such as Walter Owen Bentley associated with the name, it has become an appealing choice for parents seeking a distinctive name for their child. Although its connection to the luxury car brand may be coincidental, it adds an additional layer of appeal for those who appreciate fine craftsmanship and high-end design.
The name Bentley has seen a significant rise in popularity over the past two decades in the United States. From 2009 onwards, there has been a steady increase in the number of babies named Bentley each year, with a notable spike from 60 births in 2009 to 359 births in 2010. This trend continued through 2014, reaching a peak of 436 births in 2011.
However, after 2014, the popularity of the name Bentley began to decline gradually. In 2022, there were 44 babies named Bentley, down from 81 births in 2017 and 119 births in 2016. Despite this decrease, Bentley remains a popular choice among parents, with 26 births recorded in 2023.
Over the past century, there have been a total of 2,382 babies named Bentley born in the United States. While the name's popularity has fluctuated over time, it has experienced significant growth since the late 2000s and continues to be chosen by parents today.