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Name Origin

Basil is a masculine given name of Greek origin, meaning 'king' or 'royal'. It derives from the Greek word 'basileus', which refers to a ruler or sovereign.

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Famous People

Basil Fawlty

Fictional Hotel Owner

  • Became an iconic comedic character in the British sitcom 'Fawlty Towers'

Basil Rathbone (1892-1967)

Actor

  • Known for his portrayal of Sherlock Holmes in numerous films

Basil D'Oliveira (1931-2011)

Cricketer

  • Played for South Africa and England; Key figure in the dismantling of apartheid-era sports segregation