Benny

Benny is a masculine given name, commonly used as a diminutive of Benjamin. The given name Benjamin derives from Hebrew Binyamin, traditionally interpreted as 'son of the right hand' or 'favored son.' In English-speaking countries, Benny is used both as a standalone given name and as a friendly nickname for Benjamin, and it is occasionally found as a surname.

Notable individuals who are or were commonly known as Benny include Benny Goodman (1909–1986), American jazz clarinetist and bandleader; Benny Hill (1924–1992), British comedian and actor; Benny Carter (1907–2003), American jazz saxophonist, composer and arranger; and Benny Blanco (born 1988), American record producer and songwriter, stage name for Benjamin Levin. These figures span music, entertainment and the arts.

In fiction and media, the name Benny appears for characters across genres, reflecting its approachable, informal tone in many English-speaking cultures.

Usage notes: while Benny is widely recognized as a given name, its use as a surname is less common. The form is also found internationally, sometimes as a nickname for Benjamin in non-English settings. The name Benjamin and its diminutives, including Benny, continue to be popular in many regions today.