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Marie Lanen
Head of parenting sections (baby, pregnancy, family), psychology and beauty
Discover a rare and timeless first name that is making a comeback in the French landscape. Carried by a royal history, a retro aura and a strong trend among young parents, it seduces with its authentic charm and modern values.
The first name Basile is experiencing growing popularity in France, and for good reason! According to L’Officiel des Prénoms (First Editions), this first name with royal origins and a sweet sound is one of the most fashionable male first names in 2024, even appearing in the Top 100 most assigned first names this year. With around 15,000 people bearing this first name in France, Basile is attracting more and more parents looking for a first name that is both classic and original.
Origins of the first name Basile
Basil originates from the ancient Greek Basileios, meaning “king” or “royal.” This first name was once reserved for noble families and Byzantine emperors, which gives it a dimension that is both historical and prestigious. In France, Basile has a more marked history of use in the southern regions, particularly in Occitanie and Provence, where it remains a traditionally appreciated first name.
Regional variants and forms
The first name Basil comes in several variations, including Basil in a more international version. In the Basque regions, we find local forms such as Basilio, Bazil, and Bazile, each bringing a regional touch to this timeless first name.
A “Bobo” and “Retro” trend
The first name Basile is part of the trend of so-called “bobo” (bourgeois-bohemian) and “retro” first names, which are attracting more and more young parents looking for first names that are both elegant and steeped in history. These first names, often from decades past, are making a comeback, driven by a desire to return to traditional and timeless values. The rise of the first name Basile testifies to this return to basics, while remaining resolutely in tune with the times.
A growing name
The experts from the book L’Officiel des Prénoms confirm that Basile is a first name in strong growth in 2024. Its rise in the ranking of the most popular first names makes it a safe bet for parents looking for a first name that is both distinctive and full of charm. . With its royal connotations and its simplicity, Basile has every chance of continuing to seduce in the years to come.