Benedict from the Late Latin name Benedictus which meant "blessed". Saint Benedict was an Italian monk who founded the Benedictines in the 6th century. After his time the name was common among Christians, being used by 16 popes. In England it did not come into use until the 12th century, at which point it became very popular.
Saintly namesake: Benedict of Nursia founded Western Christian monasticism and the Benedictine order. He is honored as the patron saint of Europe and architects. (July 11 · 6th century)
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