Unix 'Basename' command
The basename utility deletes any prefix ending in / and the suffix (if present in string) from string, and prints the result on the standard output. It is normally used inside substitution marks (``) within shell procedures. Syntax basename [string] [suffix] string - the leading part of the path name or sting suffix - additional remaining portion of name that if matches will be removed Examples basename myfile.txt .txt - Takes the basename of myfile.txt and strips the .txt portion and then just displays myfile. credits to: http://www.computerhope.com/unix/ubasenam.htm