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Tulsi

Girl Name #4,055 Most Popular Hidden Gem 2 Syllables

A sacred Sanskrit name meaning holy basil -- beloved by Lakshmi

Indian Hindu Nepali
Spiritual Earthy Elegant Traditional

Meaning & Origin

"the incomparable one"
Origin: Sanskrit
Language: Sanskrit
"holy basil plant"
Origin: Sanskrit
Language: Hindi

Things to Know About This Name

  • Tulsi Gabbard, controversial American politician, may create associations

The Story of Tulsi

Tulsi comes from the Sanskrit word for holy basil -- the sacred plant Ocimum tenuiflorum. In Hinduism, Tulsi is one of the most revered plants, considered an incarnation of the goddess Lakshmi and grown in almost every Hindu home as a symbol of divine grace and protection. The name carries the meaning of the incomparable one, reflecting the plant's sacred status.

Tulsi is a traditional name across India and Nepal, used for generations in Hindu families who honor the sacred basil plant. In the Western world, the name gained some recognition through Tulsi Gabbard, the American politician and military veteran, though this association is somewhat polarizing.

In Hindu tradition, the Tulsi plant is worshipped daily and is considered a portal to Vishnu/Krishna. Homes typically keep a Tulsi plant in a central courtyard or altar space. Naming a daughter Tulsi is an act of devotion -- invoking the goddess's blessing and purity upon the child.

Fun Facts

  • The Tulsi plant is worshipped in over 80% of Hindu households
  • In Ayurvedic medicine, Tulsi (holy basil) is known as the queen of herbs for its healing properties

Tulsi in Other Languages

Hindi Tulsi
Tamil Tulasi
Nepali Tulasi
Japanese Tulsi
Sanskrit Tulasi

Famous People Named Tulsi

T

Tulsi Gabbard

Politician

1981

American politician, military officer, and former Democratic congresswoman from Hawaii

T

Tulsi

Other

The sacred holy basil plant personified as a goddess in Hindu mythology, considered an avatar of Lakshmi

Quick Facts

Gender
Girl
Syllables
2
Popularity Rank
#4,055
Total SSA Count
36
Cultural Origins
Indian Hindu Nepali
Pronunciation
Easy
Formality
Moderate
Cross-Cultural Ease
Moderate

Common Nicknames

Tul

Pairs Well With

Tulsi Devi Tulsi Priya Tulsi Ananya Tulsi Grace Tulsi Rose Tulsi Meera

Sibling Names

Similar Names

Same Origin Names (Indian)

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Frequently Asked Questions About Tulsi

What does the name Tulsi mean?
"the incomparable one" (from Sanskrit). "holy basil plant" (from Sanskrit). Tulsi comes from the Sanskrit word for holy basil -- the sacred plant Ocimum tenuiflorum. In Hinduism, Tulsi is one of the most revered plants, considered an incarnation of the goddess Lakshmi and grown in almost every Hindu home as a symbol of divine grace and protection. The name carries the meaning of the incomparable one, reflecting the plant's sacred status.
What is the origin of the name Tulsi?
Tulsi has Sanskrit, Indian, Hindu, and Nepali origins. In Sanskrit, it means "the incomparable one". In Sanskrit, it means "holy basil plant".
Is Tulsi a boy or girl name?
Tulsi is primarily used as a girl name.
How popular is the name Tulsi?
Tulsi is currently ranked #4055 in popularity for girl names in the United States.
What are common nicknames for Tulsi?
Common nicknames for Tulsi include Tul.
What are good middle names for Tulsi?
Popular middle name pairings include Tulsi Devi, Tulsi Priya, Tulsi Ananya, Tulsi Grace, Tulsi Rose, and Tulsi Meera.
What are good sibling names for Tulsi?
Names that pair well with Tulsi as siblings include Meena, Priya, Arjun, Veda, Krishna, and Ananya.
How many syllables does Tulsi have?
Tulsi has 2 syllables, making it easy to say and remember.
Is Tulsi a common or rare name?
Tulsi is an uncommon name, ranked #4055 in the US. Its rarity gives it a distinctive, memorable quality.

About the Name Tulsi

Tulsi is a girl name with Indian, Hindu, and Nepali origins . The name means "the incomparable one" in Sanskrit .

Tulsi is currently ranked #4,055 in popularity for girl names in the United States.

The name Tulsi has 2 syllables, making it easy to pronounce and remember.

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

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