basil
1 synonym for basil, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — An aromatic herb with green leaves, widely used in cooking, especially in Italian and Thai dishes.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
sweet basil
How to use basil
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
fresh basil
basil leaves
basil pesto
Etymology
From Old French basile, ultimately from Greek basilikon, "royal," from basileus, "king" — the herb was seen as a "kingly" plant.
Full origin of basil →Frequently asked questions
What does “basil” mean?
The word “basil” means an aromatic herb with green leaves, widely used in cooking, especially in Italian and Thai dishes. In plain terms, a fragrant green cooking herb, often used with tomatoes.
How do you pronounce “basil”?
“Basil” is pronounced BAZ-uhl (/ˈbeɪ.zəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “basil” in a sentence?
Here is “basil” used in a sentence: “She added fresh basil to the tomato sauce.”
What part of speech is “basil”?
“Basil” is a noun.
Where does the word “basil” come from?
The word “basil” comes from Old French. From Old French basile, ultimately from Greek basilikon, "royal," from basileus, "king" — the herb was seen as a "kingly" plant.
Is “basil” a common word?
“Basil” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between basil and other Italian herbs like oregano?
Basil has a sweet, slightly peppery flavor and is central to dishes like pesto and Caprese salad, while oregano is more pungent and earthy and is commonly used in tomato sauces and Greek cooking. They're often paired together but bring distinct flavor profiles.
What is Thai basil, and how is it different from regular basil?
Thai basil is a variety with a more anise-like, spicier flavor and sturdier leaves than the sweet basil common in Italian cooking. It holds up better to high heat, making it popular in stir-fries and curries.
What dishes commonly use basil?
Basil is a staple in Italian cooking, especially in pesto, Caprese salad, and tomato-based sauces, and it's equally important in Thai cuisine for curries and stir-fries. Its aromatic green leaves are usually added fresh or lightly cooked to preserve flavor.
