Ben

Ben is the Hebrew word for “son” and is also a familiar short form of several names. Benjamin belongs to that Hebrew family, while Benedict has a separate Latin origin meaning “blessed.” A Ben named after a Benedict therefore has a different historical explanation from one whose full name is Benjamin.

The three-letter form is complete enough to use independently, and parents do not need to select a longer official name if Ben is the intended everyday choice. Benny or Bennie can serve as affectionate forms. Its simplicity can also make it a direct family tribute, with the specific person being honored supplying more personal meaning than a general list of possible translations.