NomOrigine Background

Last Name Ben-fraj

What is the origin of the last name Ben-fraj?

The surname Ben-Fraj has its origins in North Africa, specifically in Algeria. It is a Jewish surname that comes from the Hebrew word "ben" which means son and "Fraj," a place name derived from the Arabic "Aïn Fraïss" or "Ain al-Frāyḥ." Ain is an Arabic term meaning spring, and Frāyḥ could refer to a type of grass or plant. Therefore, Ben-Fraj could be translated as Son of the Spring or Son of the Grass. The name is commonly found among Jews of North African descent, particularly those who emigrated from Algeria to other parts of the world, such as Israel and France.

Unlock and discover the hidden secrets of the surname Ben-fraj

Unlock the Secrets of Your Surname Now

For only 3.95 $, you get:

  • Full access for 7 days
  • Unlimited access to all name and surname profiles
  • High-quality Origin Certificate
  • Download: Keep a precious memory with your origins downloadable in PDF format.
  • Unlimited search
  • Ad-Free: Enjoy a smooth and uninterrupted user experience.
  • ✅ 15-Day Money-Back Satisfaction Guarantee!
Unlock the Secrets of Your Surname Now
🎁 Special offer today: 3.95 $ instead of 6.95 $
⏳ This exclusive offer expires in:

✅ 15-Day Money-Back Satisfaction Guarantee!

What our users say

“I discovered fascinating details about my family history. This service is amazing for tracing our roots!” - Jean D.

“This site strengthened our sense of family belonging by uncovering our origins. Highly recommended!” - Marie L.

“The information was detailed and accurate. I learned interesting facts about my ancestors. A must-have!” - Paul S.

✅ Join the 5,000+ people who have already discovered the fascinating history of their last name!

Discover my family history now

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What will I discover by exploring my last name?
Answer: You will discover the geographical origin, etymology, and unique history of your last name. You can also explore family traditions and historical events connected to it.

Question: How long does it take to access the information?
Answer: Once your payment is confirmed, access is instant. You can start exploring right away.

Question: Are the details about my last name accurate?
Answer: Our data comes from extensive research in reliable archives and historical databases. While we cannot guarantee 100% accuracy, we strive to provide the most complete and precise information possible.

Payment Information

or pay by card

By clicking 'Confirm my payment', you agree to our refund policy, accessible via this link: Refund Policy, as well as our cancellation policy accessible via this link: Cancellation Policy

Learn more about the origin of the last name Ben-fraj

The meaning and origin of the last name Ben-fraj

The surname Ben-Fraj is of Moroccan origin, specifically from the Berber community. "Ben" is a common prefix in Arabic and Berber names, meaning "son of," and "Fraj" is believed to be a Berber personal name derived from the word "afraja," which means "strong." The Ben-Fraj family is historically associated with the Aït Attab tribe in the High Atlas mountains of Morocco. Over time, many members of this family have migrated and settled in various regions, particularly in France, where the surname has become more common.

Geographical distribution of the last name Ben-fraj

The surname Ben-Fraj is primarily of Moroccan origin and predominantly found within Morocco, with significant concentrations in regions such as Casablanca, Rabat, and Marrakech. However, there are also minor diaspora communities bearing this surname in various parts of the world, particularly France, Belgium, Canada, and the United States, which can be attributed to migration from Morocco in the 20th century. In these countries, concentrations of Ben-Fraj families tend to reside in urban centers with large Moroccan populations or areas with historical connections to North Africa. While the name is relatively rare outside of Morocco and its diaspora communities, it remains a common surname within Morocco itself.

Variants and spellings of the last name Ben-fraj

The spelling of the surname Ben-Fraj can be found with various minor differences due to transcription errors, regional dialects, or personal preferences. Some common variations include: Benfray, Ben Fraj, Ben Frai, Ben-Frai, Ben Fraje, and Benfra. It is important to note that these variations may result in slightly different pronunciations. The name is of Moroccan origin, with "Ben" being a prefix meaning son of, and "Fraj" likely derived from the Arabic word for straw or reed.

Famous people with the last name Ben-fraj

Ben Freja is a surname that has produced several notable individuals across various fields. One of the most renowned is Aharon Ben-Freier (born 1947), an Israeli politician who served as a member of the Knesset for the Likud and later Shinui parties from 1984 to 2006. In the world of art, Nissim Ben-Freier (1923-2015) was a celebrated Israeli sculptor, known for his abstract works that often incorporated elements of nature. In the realm of science, Gideon Ben-Freier is an engineer and inventor who holds numerous patents in the fields of biotechnology and medical devices. Lastly, Alon Ben-Freier is a professional tennis player from Israel, who reached his highest ATP singles ranking of 145 in 2013.

Genealogical research on the last name Ben-fraj

The Ben-Fraj surname is predominantly of Sephardic Jewish origin, with roots tracing back to Spain and Portugal. Historically, the Ben-Fraj family, also known as the Bensafrim or Bensafra, are believed to have been expelled from Spain during the Inquisition in 1492. Many Sephardic Jews were forced to flee, settling primarily in North Africa and the Ottoman Empire, including areas such as Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria, and Turkey. Over time, some members of this family moved from these regions to other parts of the world, including France, England, and the Americas. The Ben-Fraj name is now found in various countries and has different spellings based on regional linguistic influences.

Last name distribution maps

Chargement de la carte...

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 30 July 2025

Share the origin of your last name with your friends

Search the origin of a family name

Enter the surname you are looking for below:

Similar Last Names

Ben abd elltif (Last name)

surnames > ben-abd-elltif

The last name "ben abd elltif" is of Arabic origin. "Ben" means "son of" in Arabic, indicating a patronymic lineage. "Abd" means "servant" or "slave" in Arabic, and "elltif" may al...

Ben abdelgheni (Last name)

surnames > ben-abdelgheni

The last name "ben Abdelgheni" is of Arabic origin, specifically of North African descent. It is a common surname in countries such as Tunisia, Algeria, and Morocco. The name "Abde...

Ben addy (Last name)

surnames > ben-addy

The surname Ben Addy originates from the Middle East, specifically from the region of Lebanon. It is derived from Arabic words "ben" meaning "son of" and "addy" meaning "just."

Ben aguida bakadir (Last name)

surnames > ben-aguida-bakadir

The last name "Ben Aguida Bakadir" appears to have origins in North Africa, particularly in regions where Arabic and Berber cultures intersect. The name "Ben" is Arabic for "son of...

Ben ahmadi (Last name)

surnames > ben-ahmadi

Ben Ahmadi is a surname of Arabic origin. The prefix "Ben" means "son of" in Arabic, and "Ahmadi" likely refers to a connection to the Arabic word "Ahmad," which means "highly prai...

Ben ahmdan (Last name)

surnames > ben-ahmdan

The surname Ben Ahmdan has Arabic origins. It is a common surname found among Arab and Islamic communities. The name "Ben" means "son of" in Arabic, while "Ahmdan" is likely derive...

Ben aydi (Last name)

surnames > ben-aydi

The last name Ben Aydi is of Arabic origin. It is a patronymic surname derived from the given name Aidi, which means "supporter" or "helper" in Arabic.

Ben chaaban (Last name)

surnames > ben-chaaban

The last name "Ben Chaaban" is of Arabic origin. The name "Ben" means "son of" in Arabic, while "Chaaban" is derived from the Arabic word for "goat herder." Therefore, the last nam...

Ben chaabene (Last name)

surnames > ben-chaabene

The last name "Ben Chaabene" is of Arabic origin. "Ben" means "son of" and is a common prefix in Arabic last names. "Chaabene" is likely derived from the word "Chaaban," which mean...

Ben chakkroun (Last name)

surnames > ben-chakkroun

The last name Ben Chakkroun is of Arabic origin. It is a combination of "Ben," meaning "son of," and "Chakkroun," which is likely a surname or family name. The name originates from...

Ben chali (Last name)

surnames > ben-chali

The surname Ben Chali is of Arabic origin. It is a combination of "ben" meaning "son of" and "chali" which is believed to be derived from the Arabic word "khali" meaning "pure" or ...

Ben charfeddine (Last name)

surnames > ben-charfeddine

The last name "Ben Charfeddine" is of Arabic origin. It is a common surname in Tunisia and other parts of the Arab world. The name "Ben" means "son of" in Arabic, while "Charfeddin...

Ben ess (Last name)

surnames > ben-ess

The last name "Ben Ess" is of Hebrew origin. "Ben" means son of in Hebrew, while "Ess" is a common Sephardic Jewish surname. It is likely that it originated as a patronymic surname...

Ben fatima (Last name)

surnames > ben-fatima

The last name Ben Fatima is of Arabic origin, specifically coming from the given name Fatimah, which means "one who abstains" or "one who weans." The prefix "Ben" in Arabic means "...

Ben gad (Last name)

surnames > ben-gad

The last name "Ben Gad" is of Hebrew origin and means "son of Gad." It is a patronymic surname derived from the Hebrew name Gad, which is borne from the Israelite tribe of Gad in t...