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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 Rathbone (1892-1967)

Actor

  • Known for his portrayal of Sherlock Holmes

Basil Bunting (1900-1985)

Poet

  • Known for his long poem Briggflats

Basil D'Oliveira (1931-2011)

Cricketer

  • Played for South Africa and England