Basil – Name Meaning
The name Basil is of Greek origin and means “king” or “royal.” It is a popular name in many countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. The name has been used for centuries and is associated with royalty, power, and strength.
History of the Name
The name Basil has its roots in Ancient Greece. In Greek mythology, it was the name of a king who was known for his strength and courage. He was also known for his wisdom and generosity. The name was later adopted by the Romans and became popular throughout Europe during the Middle Ages.
In the English-speaking world, the name Basil first appeared in literature in the 16th century. It was used as a given name for characters in several plays by William Shakespeare. The popularity of the name continued to grow throughout the 19th century and into the 20th century.
Popularity
Today, Basil is a popular name in many countries around the world. In the United States, it ranked #717 on the Social Security Administration’s list of most popular baby names in 2019. In Canada, it ranked #845 on their list of most popular baby names in 2018. In Australia, it ranked #902 on their list of most popular baby names in 2017.
The popularity of Basil as a given name has remained steady over time. It is still seen as a strong and powerful name that conveys authority and respect.
Famous People Named Basil
There are many famous people who have been given the name Basil over the years. Some notable examples include:
- Basil Rathbone, an English actor best known for playing Sherlock Holmes in 14 films from 1939 to 1946.
- Basil Dearden, an English film director who directed several classic British films such as Victim (1961) and The League of Gentlemen (1960).
- Basil Liddell Hart, an English military historian who wrote extensively about World War I.
Conclusion
The name Basil is steeped in history and carries with it a sense of strength and power. It is a timeless classic that has been used for centuries and remains popular today. Whether you are looking for a strong male name or just want to honor your Greek heritage, Basil is an excellent choice.
