First Known Use: 15th century
Dictionary
basil
noun ba·sil \ˈba-zəl, ˈbā-, -səl\
: an herb that has a sweet smell and that is used in cooking
Full Definition of BASIL
1
: any of several aromatic herbs (genus Ocimum) of the mint family; especially : sweet basil
2
: the dried or fresh leaves of a basil used especially as a seasoning
See basil defined for English-language learners
See basil defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of BASIL
Middle French basile, from Late Latin basilicum, from Greek basilikon, from neuter of basilikos
Basil
biographical name Bas·il \ˈbā-zəl, ˈba-, -səl\
Definition of BASIL
Saint ca 329–379 the Great church father; bishop of Caesarea
Variants of BASIL
Bas·il or Ba·sil·i·us \bə-ˈsi-lē-əs, -ˈzi-\
Rhymes with BASIL
BASIL Defined for Kids
basil
noun ba·sil \ˈba-zəl, ˈbā-\
Definition of BASIL for Kids
: a fragrant mint used in cooking
Learn More About BASIL
Browse
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up basil? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).