Basil

“kingly”

Greece origin · Unisex name

♂ 98% boys♀ 2% girls

#2030US 2023

74Births / yr

↓Falling

13kAll-time births

📅 Since 191900

How to pronounce Basil

BAZ·ul

/ˈbæz.əl/ · stress on BAZ · 2 syllables

“kingly”

Greece origin · Unisex name

What does Basil mean and where does it come from?

Initially a male name derived from the Greek 'Basilios', meaning 'kingly' or 'royal', Basil has been adopted as a female name in modern usage. The name has historical significance, as Saint Basil the Great was an influential Christian bishop. The name has enjoyed fluctuating popularity throughout hi

Cultural significance

Basil has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greece-speaking communities, where it reflects values of kingly.

Peak popularity

Reached #3845 in 1919 — currently #2030 in the US.

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What middle names flow best with Basil?

Basil works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Basil Grace

How popular is Basil right now?

Falling — down 202 spots — currently #2030 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 2010–2023#2030 · Top 1.5%

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#2030	74	▼ down 202 · -16% births
2022	#1828	88	▲ up 173 · +19% births
2021	#2001	74	▲ up 4275 · +311% births
2020	#6276	18	▲ up 977 · +13% births
2015	#7253	16	▲ up 2543 · +45% births
2010	#9796	11	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Basil

Best Year2022Rank #1828

Peak Count88

Average Rank#4864

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range2010 - 20236 years

The story of Basil

Basil entered American naming records in 1919 and has been in use for over 105 years. A total of 13,022 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #9796 in 2010 to #2030 in 2023. Basil is used for both genders: 2% female and 98% male.

Names that peaked alongside Basil in 1919:

Mary Helen Dorothy Margaret Ruth

Basil by decade

Basil peaked in the 1910s. See all 1910s names →

Decade	Births
1880s	124
1890s	244
1900s	334
1910s	1,727
1920s ★	2,455
1930s	1,705
1940s	1,293
1950s	1,090
1960s	874
1970s	574
1980s	572
1990s	660
2000s	555
2010s	739
2020s	76

What are good nicknames for Basil?

Common

BasBasieBasy

What names sound and feel like Basil?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Basil also consider these

Slavic countries · spear

Wasil

Russian · the one who

Common questions about the name Basil

What does the name Basil mean?

Basil means "kingly" — a name rooted in Greece tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.

How popular is the name Basil?

Basil is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.

What is the cultural origin of Basil?

Basil originates from Greece tradition. Greece names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.

How do you pronounce the name Basil?

Basil is a two-syllable name pronounced B AE1 Z AH0 L. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

Is Basil a common or rare name?

Basil is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.