Files and folders

The basename command

From a full path, shows only the final name of the file or folder.

Syntax

basename <ruta> [sufijo]

Copy-ready examples

$ basename /etc/passwdFinal name
$ basename /home/alumno/informe.txt .txtRemoving the extension

You can try them in the browser terminal: it does not touch your computer.

Typical mistakes

  • Very useful inside scripts to keep just the file name.

Related commands

dirnamerealpath

FAQ

Do basename and dirname complement each other?

Yes: one gives the name and the other the folder that holds it.

Learn to actually use it

The basic Linux course takes you from zero to console fluency with 24 self-grading lessons.

Start the free course