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 #2015 in 2024 — currently #2022 in the US.
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Related Reading
Greece-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Basil?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
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 Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Basil John
One syllable · timeless choice
Basil Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Basil Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Basil Gael
One syllable · timeless choice
Basil Kai
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Basil right now?
Declining — down 7 spots — currently #2022 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #2022 | 74 | ▼ down 7 · -3% births |
| 2024 | #2015 | 76 | ▲ up 15 · +3% births |
| 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 | — |
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 2024:
Basil by decade
Basil peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s 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 | 268 | |
What are good nicknames for Basil?
What names sound and feel like Basil?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Basil also consider these
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 BAZ-ul. 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.