Basil

Pronunciation: [ b-AZ-uhl ]

Boy Name #2,026 Most Popular Hidden Gem 2 Syllables

A regal Greek classic fit for a king

English Greek Eastern European Middle Eastern

Vintage Sophisticated Literary Bold

Meaning & Origin

"king, royal"

Origin: Greek

Language: Greek

"kingly, of the king"

Origin: Greek basileus

Language: English

The Story of Basil

Basil derives from the Greek 'Basilios', from 'basileus' meaning king. It was the name of Basil the Great (329-379 AD), a bishop of Caesarea and one of the most influential theologians in Christian history, which spread the name throughout the Eastern Christian world. The name was also borne by Byzantine emperors, cementing its royal associations.

Basil was common in Britain through the early 20th century and has been experiencing a quiet revival as parents rediscover classic names with character. John Cleese's iconic Basil Fawlty character kept the name in British consciousness, and the herb connection adds a fresh, botanical appeal.

Saint Basil the Great is one of the Three Holy Hierarchs in Eastern Christianity and the patron saint of Cappadocia. In Greece and Eastern Orthodox communities, Basil is a highly respected name. In Britain, the name carries both aristocratic and comedic associations through Fawlty Towers.

Fun Facts

Saint Basil's Cathedral in Moscow, built 1555-1561, is named after the saint, not the king
Basil the herb takes its name from the same Greek root—fit for a king
Basil Fawlty of Fawlty Towers is consistently ranked one of the greatest British TV comedy characters

Basil in Other Languages

Greek Βασίλειος

Arabic باسيل

Italian Basilio

Russian Василий

Spanish Basilio

Famous People Named Basil

Basil Rathbone

Actor

1892

South African-British actor most famous for playing Sherlock Holmes in 14 films from 1939-1946

Basil the Great

Religious

329

Bishop of Caesarea and Doctor of the Church, one of the most influential theologians in Christian history

Basil Fawlty Fictional

Other

Fictional hapless hotel owner created and played by John Cleese in the BBC sitcom Fawlty Towers

Quick Facts

Gender: Boy
Syllables: 2
Popularity Rank: #2,026
Total SSA Count: 76
Cultural Origins: English Greek Eastern European Middle Eastern
Pronunciation: Moderate
Formality: Formal
Cross-Cultural Ease: High

Common Nicknames

Baz

Pairs Well With

Basil Oliver Basil James Basil Henry Basil Edward Basil George Basil Frederick

Sibling Names

Cecil Rupert Jasper Cressida Cordelia Clementine

Also a Girl Name

Basil is also used as a girl name, ranked #6357.

View Basil as a girl name →

Similar Names

Virgil Cyril Faisal

Playground Safety

Kid-Friendly

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Frequently Asked Questions About Basil

What does the name Basil mean?

"king, royal" (from Greek). "kingly, of the king" (from Greek basileus). Basil derives from the Greek 'Basilios', from 'basileus' meaning king. It was the name of Basil the Great (329-379 AD), a bishop of Caesarea and one of the most influential theologians in Christian history, which spread the name throughout the Eastern Christian world. The name was also borne by Byzantine emperors, cementing its royal associations.

What is the origin of the name Basil?

Basil has Greek, Greek basileus, English, Eastern European, and Middle Eastern origins. In Greek, it means "king, royal". In Greek basileus, it means "kingly, of the king".

Is Basil a boy or girl name?

Basil is used as both a boy and girl name. As a boy name, it is ranked #2026. As a girl name, it is ranked #6357. Basil is more commonly used as a boy name.

How do you pronounce Basil?

Basil is pronounced b-AZ-uhl.

How popular is the name Basil?

Basil is currently ranked #2026 in popularity for boy names in the United States.

What are common nicknames for Basil?

Common nicknames for Basil include Baz.

What are good middle names for Basil?

Popular middle name pairings include Basil Oliver, Basil James, Basil Henry, Basil Edward, Basil George, and Basil Frederick.

What are good sibling names for Basil?

Names that pair well with Basil as siblings include Cecil, Rupert, Jasper, Cressida, Cordelia, and Clementine.

How many syllables does Basil have?

Basil has 2 syllables, making it easy to say and remember.

Is Basil a common or rare name?

Basil is an uncommon name, ranked #2026 in the US. Its rarity gives it a distinctive, memorable quality.

About the Name Basil

Basil is a boy name with English, Greek, Eastern European, and Middle Eastern origins . The name means "king, royal" in Greek .

Is Basil a boy or girl name? Basil is used as both a boy and girl name. As a boy name, it ranks #2,026 in popularity. As a girl name, it ranks #6,357. Basil is more commonly used as a boy name.

Basil is currently ranked #2,026 in popularity for boy names in the United States.

The name Basil has 2 syllables and is pronounced b-AZ-uhl, making it easy to pronounce and remember.

Common nicknames for Basil include Baz. These shorter forms provide casual alternatives while keeping the elegance of the full name.