Basil
Basil: name meaning, origin and popularity
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈbæz.əl/
Meaning and origin of Basil
- A male given name from Ancient Greek, in quiet but steady use in the UK.
Etymology
Name of several early saints, particularly in the Orthodox Church, from Latin Basilius, from Ancient Greek Βασίλειος (Basíleios). Doublet of Vasilios and Vasily.
How popular is Basil?
Since 1880, 366 girls and 13,172 boys in the U.S. have been named Basil (3% girls). Its highest rank for girls was #3866 in 1919. Its highest rank for boys was #322 in 1897. In 2025, 97 babies were given the name, outside the top 1,000.
Names similar to Basil
Names that start with the same letters, most popular first.
More Greek boy names
Sibling name ideas for Basil
Sister and brother names that share Basil's Greek roots and are still in the U.S. top 1,000.
Basil FAQ
What does the name Basil mean?
A male given name from Ancient Greek, in quiet but steady use in the UK. Name of several early saints, particularly in the Orthodox Church, from Latin Basilius, from Ancient Greek Βασίλειος (Basíleios). Doublet of Vasilios and Vasily.
What is the origin of the name Basil?
Basil is listed as a name of Greek origin.
How popular is the name Basil?
Since 1880, 366 girls and 13,172 boys in the U.S. have been named Basil (3% girls). Its highest rank for girls was #3866 in 1919. Its highest rank for boys was #322 in 1897. In 2025, 97 babies were given the name, outside the top 1,000.
Is Basil a boy or girl name?
Basil is mostly a boy name in the U.S.: 366 girls and 13,172 boys since 1880.
Popularity data: U.S. Social Security Administration baby name data, 1880–2025 (names given to 5+ babies per year). Origin and etymology text: Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.