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Definition of basil

basil

/ˈbeɪzəl/
ba · sil
Plural:basils
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basil Lexical Profile

basil Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The fresh or dried leaves of the basil plant, used extensively as a culinary herb to flavor dishes, notably in Italian and Southeast Asian cuisines.

Example

"He garnished the homemade Margherita pizza with fresh leaves of basil."

2

An aromatic annual herb of the mint family, native to tropical regions from Central Africa to Southeast Asia, widely cultivated for its fragrant green leaves.

Example

"She planted basil, thyme, and rosemary in her small kitchen garden."

• Rhymes for basil

• Nearby Words

basella
basenji
bash bish
basil
basilisk
basin
basket

Word Origin & Etymology

From Middle English 'basil', from Old French 'basile', derived from Latin 'basilicum', which ultimately comes from Ancient Greek 'basilikón' (meaning 'royal'), possibly because it was used in royal perfumes or medicines.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Basil. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 14, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/basil
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