basilica
ba·sil·i·ca
noun \bə-ˈsi-li-kə also -ˈzi-\Definition of BASILICA
1
: an oblong building ending in a semicircular apse used in ancient Rome especially for a court of justice and place of public assembly
2
: an early Christian church building consisting of nave and aisles with clerestory and a large high transept from which an apse projects
3
: a Roman Catholic church given ceremonial privileges
— ba·sil·i·can \-kən\ adjective
See Origin of BASILICA
Latin, from Greek basilikē, from feminine of basilikos royal, from basileus king
First Known Use: 1541
Learn More About BASILICA
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: basilicon ointment
Previous Word in the Dictionary: basilic (adjective)
All Words Near: basilica
Previous Word in the Dictionary: basilic (adjective)
All Words Near: basilica
Seen & Heard 
What made you want to look up basilica? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
