Holding steady, #12,008 for boys today.
Popularity of Bassel since 1980
Babies named Bassel per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1980s | 28 |
| 1990s | 73 |
| 2000s | 50 |
| 2010s | 110 |
| 2020s | 35 |
Meaning & origin
Bassel, meaning 'brave' or 'courageous,' is an Arabic name that has seen modest but steady use in the United States since the 1980s. It first appeared in Social Security records in 1980, and its popularity peaked in 2013. In 2025, the name ranked 12,008th nationally, with approximately 1 in every 341,615 newborn boys receiving the name. The trajectory has been stable in recent years, reflecting consistent but niche appeal. While Bassel does not appear among the top state lists, it remains a recognizable variant of the more widely used Basil and Basel. Bassel carries a strong and positive meaning deeply rooted in Arabic culture, making it a meaningful choice for families seeking a name with heritage and valor.
Bassel is the English transliteration of the Arabic name Basil (باسل), meaning 'brave' or 'courageous.' It stems from the Arabic root B-S-L (ب س ل), which conveys valor and fearlessness. The name has been used across the Arabic-speaking world for centuries, particularly in the Levant and Gulf regions.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Bas, Bassi
Sibling names for Bassel
Names that share Bassel's style, for a brother or sister.
