Bastet: a female name of Ancient Egyptian origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Egyptian “bȝstt,” meaning “she of the ointment jar".It derives from the Ancient Egyptian word "bȝstt > Bastet".
Bastet is a feminine name that means "This name derives from the Ancient Egyptian “bȝstt,” meaning “she of the ointment jar". Its Ancient Egyptian origins reflect deep cultural values and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Parents choosing this name often appreciate its profound significance and timeless appeal.
Quick Facts About Bastet
Quick facts about Bastet
Origin
Ancient Egyptian
Gender
Girl name
Popularity
Moderately popular
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
This name derives from the Ancient Egyptian “bȝstt,” meaning “she of the ointment jar.” Bastet is the name commonly used by scholars today to refer to a feline goddess of ancient Egyptian religion who was worshipped at least since the second dynasty. From the third millennium BC, when Bastet begins to appear in our record, she is depicted as either a fierce lioness or a woman with the head of a lion. Images of Bast were created from a local stone, named alabaster today.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
bȝstt > Bastet
Other Scripts
Arabic (باستت)
How to Pronounce Bastet
Bastet is pronounced /ˈbæs.tɛt/
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Bas-tet
Say it like: "BAS-TET"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Bastet enjoys international appeal, used in 10 different linguistic and cultural contexts including english, spanish, catalan, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.
Bastet means "This name derives from the Ancient Egyptian “bȝstt,” meaning “she of the ointment jar.” Bastet is the name commonly used by scholars today to refer to a feline goddess of ancient Egyptian religion who was worshipped at least since the second dynasty. From the third millennium BC, when Bastet begins to appear in our record, she is depicted as either a fierce lioness or a woman with the head of a lion. Images of Bast were created from a local stone, named alabaster today.". The name comes from bȝstt > Bastet. In its original form, the name derives from Bastet (باستت). This ancient egyptian name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Bastet for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Egyptian “bȝstt,” meaning “she of the ointment jar.” Bastet is the name commonly used by scholars today to refer to a feline goddess of ancient Egyptian religion who was worshipped at least since the second dynasty. From the third millennium BC, when Bastet begins to appear in our record, she is depicted as either a fierce lioness or a woman with the head of a lion. Images of Bast were created from a local stone, named alabaster today." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Bastet's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like EGYPTIAN MYTHOLOGY, reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Bastet?
Bastet is a ancient egyptian name. The name traces back to bȝstt > Bastet. The original form Bastet (باستت) shows the name's roots in its native language. In its native script, Bastet is written as Arabic (باستت). From its ancient egyptian roots, Bastet spread to become common in english, spanish, catalan, french and other cultures. The ancient egyptian meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Egyptian “bȝstt,” meaning “she of the ointment jar.” Bastet is the name commonly used by scholars today to refer to a feline goddess of ancient Egyptian religion who was worshipped at least since the second dynasty. From the third millennium BC, when Bastet begins to appear in our record, she is depicted as either a fierce lioness or a woman with the head of a lion. Images of Bast were created from a local stone, named alabaster today." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Bastet a boy or girl name?
Bastet is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In ancient egyptian tradition, Bastet has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Egyptian “bȝstt,” meaning “she of the ointment jar.” Bastet is the name commonly used by scholars today to refer to a feline goddess of ancient Egyptian religion who was worshipped at least since the second dynasty. From the third millennium BC, when Bastet begins to appear in our record, she is depicted as either a fierce lioness or a woman with the head of a lion. Images of Bast were created from a local stone, named alabaster today." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Bastet?
Bastet is pronounced "/ˈbæs.tɛt/". This pronunciation follows eg language patterns. In its original script, the name appears as Arabic (باستت), which helps explain how native speakers pronounce it. As a single-syllable name, Bastet is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, spanish, catalan, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with ancient egyptian names, listening to a native speaker say Bastet can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root bȝstt > Bastet influences how Bastet sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Bastet?
Bastet is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Bastet offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Bastet's popularity may vary between ancient egyptian communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Egyptian “bȝstt,” meaning “she of the ointment jar.” Bastet is the name commonly used by scholars today to refer to a feline goddess of ancient Egyptian religion who was worshipped at least since the second dynasty. From the third millennium BC, when Bastet begins to appear in our record, she is depicted as either a fierce lioness or a woman with the head of a lion. Images of Bast were created from a local stone, named alabaster today." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Bastet holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Bastet commonly used?
Bastet spans multiple cultures, including english, spanish, catalan, and 7 other traditions. Though ancient egyptian in origin, Bastet found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Bastet, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Egyptian “bȝstt,” meaning “she of the ointment jar.” Bastet is the name commonly used by scholars today to refer to a feline goddess of ancient Egyptian religion who was worshipped at least since the second dynasty. From the third millennium BC, when Bastet begins to appear in our record, she is depicted as either a fierce lioness or a woman with the head of a lion. Images of Bast were created from a local stone, named alabaster today." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Bastet into their naming traditions. A child named Bastet will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Bastet is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Bastet?
Bastet carries associations with EGYPTIAN MYTHOLOGY. These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Egyptian “bȝstt,” meaning “she of the ointment jar.” Bastet is the name commonly used by scholars today to refer to a feline goddess of ancient Egyptian religion who was worshipped at least since the second dynasty. From the third millennium BC, when Bastet begins to appear in our record, she is depicted as either a fierce lioness or a woman with the head of a lion. Images of Bast were created from a local stone, named alabaster today." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In ancient egyptian culture, where Bastet originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Bastet sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Bastet often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In english communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.