Find out how popular the first name Benita has been for the last 50 years (from 1974 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Benita by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Benita is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 15 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Benita.

The history of the first name Benita

The name Benita is a feminine given name with origins tracing back to the Latin language. It is derived from the Latin word "benedicta," which means "blessed." The name is a variant of the masculine name Benedict or Benedictus.

In its earliest usage, the name Benita was associated with the Benedictine order of monks and nuns, founded by St. Benedict in the 6th century. The Benedictine monasteries played a significant role in preserving ancient texts and promoting education during the Middle Ages.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Benita can be found in the 12th century, when a nun named Benita of Orvieto lived in a Benedictine convent in Italy. She is known for her writings on spiritual matters and her devotion to the Benedictine way of life.

In the 13th century, Benita de Burgos, a Spanish noblewoman, was renowned for her philanthropic work and her support for the poor and needy. She established several hospitals and charitable institutions in her hometown of Burgos.

During the Renaissance period, Benita Lomellin (1520-1563), an Italian painter and nun from Genoa, gained recognition for her religious artworks, particularly her altarpieces and frescoes adorning churches in Italy.

In the 17th century, Benita Ferrero (1627-1677), a Spanish mystic and Carmelite nun, was known for her visions and spiritual writings. Her work, "Autobiography and Spiritual Testament," offers insights into her religious experiences and her devotion to the Carmelite order.

Another notable figure bearing the name Benita was Benita Cadogan (1773-1860), a British activist and philanthropist. She was instrumental in establishing several schools and charitable organizations aimed at improving the education and welfare of children in London.

These are just a few examples of the historical figures who carried the name Benita. Throughout the centuries, the name has been associated with piety, spirituality, and a dedication to charitable causes, reflecting its origins as a "blessed" name with religious connotations.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Benita was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Benita, please contact us.

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