Vasilisa

Vasilisa is a feminine form of the Russian name Vasilia, which in turn is the feminine version of Vasili. The roots of this name trace back to the Greek designations Basileus (Βασιλευς) and Basileios (Βασιλειος).

What does the name Vasilisa mean?

The name Vasilisa is considered a Russian variant of Vasilia, the feminine form of Vasili. This derives from the Ancient Greek terms Basileus (Βασιλευς) and Basileios (Βασιλειος). In direct translation, it means 'the Royal' or 'the Queen.' The origin is found in the Ancient Greek language, where basileús (βᾰσῐλεύς) means 'the King,' 'the Chief,' 'the Master,' 'the Lord,' and 'the Patron,' and basíleios (βασίλειος) means 'royal.' The name became widespread particularly through the veneration of Saint Basil, the Archbishop of Caesarea. Other variants include Basilea, Basilia, Basilisa, Basilissa, Bazilea, Vasilica, Vasilena, Vasiliki, Vasilissa, Vasilija, Vasilina, Vasilka, Vassilia, and Vassiliki. In German-speaking regions, the short form Basil is the most well-known, while in Spain, Basilio is used. The Russian and Slavic equivalent is Wassili. Other male variants include Basilius, Basilic, Basilides, Basilus, Basiel, Bazil, Bazyli, and Basileo. Additional forms include Vasileios, Vasile, Vassileios, and Wasilios.

Where does the name Vasilisa come from?

The name Vasilisa originates from Ancient Greek and means 'the Royal.' It is composed of the terms basileús, meaning 'the King, the Chief, the Master, the Lord, the Patron,' and basíleios for 'royal.' The language is Russian.

How do you pronounce Vasilisa?

The pronunciation of Vasilisa is four syllables and melodious. The name is pronounced as 'Va-si-li-sa' [vaˈziːlisa] or [vaˈsiːlisa]. The soft S sounds and bright I vowels create a melodic rhythm. With its open structure and recurring '-sa,' it produces a harmonious flow. Thus, Vasilisa appears fairy-tale-like, melodious, and feminine.

When is the name day of Vasilisa?

The name day of Vasilisa is celebrated on January 2.

Popularity

In Germany, the name Vasilisa enjoys great popularity. Currently, it ranks 2,358th on the list of the most common female first names. Its best placement was in 2023 at 1,346th. Over the past ten years, Vasilisa has been given as a first name approximately 140 times, placing it 2,029th in the ten-year statistics. From 2010 to 2024, it ranks 2,350th.

Nicknames & pet names

Lislis / Liss / Lissa / Vasi / Vasilka / Vasja / Vasya / Wasiliska / Wasja

Famous people

• Vasilisa Dragomir (from the novel Vampire Academy)