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
Examples of basil in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
My meal began with a leek, fried until light and crispy, followed by risotto with a pesto made from a native basil called tchayo and a red carp stuffed with black olives and served with a carrot purée.
—
Caitlin Gunther, Travel + Leisure, 12 Jan. 2026
Add tomatoes, basil, cucumber, and olives.
—Cathy Thomas, Oc Register, 12 Jan. 2026
In the jar of a blender, combine kale, basil, Parmigiano-Reggiano, lemon juice and remaining 1 teaspoon salt.
—C.w. Cameron, AJC.com, 11 Jan. 2026
The real magic lies in the aromatic blend of herbs, including basil, oregano, thyme, and parsley.
—Libby Monteith Minor, Southern Living, 11 Jan. 2026
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Cite this Entry
“Basil.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/basil. Accessed 13 Jan. 2026.
Biographical Definition
variants
or Basilius
bə-ˈsi-lē-əs 
-ˈzi-
Saint circa 329–379 the Great church father; bishop of Caesarea
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