Benno

The first name Benno is a traditional German name that is primarily used as a short form for names beginning with 'Bern-' (derived from the Old High German word for 'bear'), especially for Bernhard, which means 'the bear strong'. Occasionally, Benno is also found as an abbreviation for the Latin name Benedikt.

What does the name Benno mean?

Benno is primarily an old German short form of names that begin with 'Bern-' and has its roots in the Old High German word for 'bear'. In relation to Benedikt, the name derives from benedicere, which means 'to bless, consecrate, (to) praise'. Benno has been known since the early Middle Ages and was particularly popular in Germany between the 19th and mid-20th centuries, before falling somewhat out of fashion. However, in recent years, the name has experienced a revival due to the trend towards traditional German first names. Similar variants include Bene, Beni, Benni, Bennie, Beno, and Berno. Notable bearers of the name include actor Benno Fürmann and football coach Benno Möhlmann.

Where does the name Benno come from?

The name Benno has Old High German and Latin roots and means 'the bear strong' or 'the blessed'.

How do you pronounce Benno?

The pronunciation of Benno is two syllables and harmonious. In the German language, the name is usually pronounced as 'Ben-no' [ˈbɛnɔ]. The gentle sound of the voiced 'b' begins the name, while the double consonant '-nn' in the middle provides a slightly condensed sound. The open 'o' at the end rounds off the name and gives it a down-to-earth and pleasant sound that feels calm and clear.

When is the name day of Benno?

The name day for Benno is celebrated on June 16 to commemorate Saint Benno of Meißen.

Popularity

Benno has been present in the name statistics in Germany for many decades, initially appearing in the top 250 to top 100. In the 1930s to 1960s, the name reached its historical peak in 1955 at rank 99. During the 1970s, Benno remained visible but then lost popularity. In the 1980s and 1990s, the name fell further back and became rarely given.

Nicknames & pet names

Bemo / Ben / Ben Hoe / Bene / Beni / Benito / Benni / Benschi / Benyes / Benzo / Beo / Beppo / Bino / Bo

Famous people

• Benno Adam (German artist)
• Benno Besson (Swiss actor)
• Benno Elbs (Catholic bishop of Feldkirch)
• Benno Elkan (German sculptor)
• Benno Frederick Törmer (painter from England)
• Benno Fürmann (actor)
• Benno Gellenbeck (American theater actor)
• Benno Hattesen (German actor)
• Benno Janssen (American architect)
• Benno Jünemann (German composer)
• Benno Kastein (founder of Circus Flic-Flac)
• Benno Kerry (Austrian philosopher)
• Benno Kühn (German geologist)
• Benno Kuipers (swimmer from the Netherlands)
• Benno Magnusson (Swedish football player)
• Benno Möhlmann (football coach)
• Benno Moiseiwitsch (Russian musician)
• Benno Ohnesorg (famous student shot during demonstrations)
• Benno Pludra (writer)
• Benno Schulz (German artist)