Basil, of Latin origin, is a distinguished and aromatic name for boys. It is derived from the Greek word 'basileus', which means 'king' or 'ruler'. This name gained popularity in the Middle Ages through its association with early Christian saints, including Saint Basil the Great, an influential theologian and bishop of Caesarea in Cappadocia. Basil also shares its roots with the herb basil, known for its delightful scent and flavor, which further lends a pleasant and verdant imagery to this name.
"Basil has seen a notable increase in popularity over the past century, with a significant spike occurring between 2012 and 2023."