Vatican

[vat-i-kuhn]

noun

1. Also called Vatican Palace. the chief residence of the popes in Vatican City, now also including a library, archives, art museum, apartments, and administrative offices.

2. the authority and government of the pope (distinguished from theQuirinal ).

Vatican

/ ˈvætɪkən /

noun

1. 1. the palace of the popes in Rome and their principal residence there since 1377, which includes administrative offices, a library, museum, etc, and is attached to the basilica of St Peter's

   2. ( as modifier )

      the Vatican Council

2. 1. the authority of the Pope and the papal curia

   2. ( as modifier )

      a Vatican edict

Word History and Origins

Origin of Vatican¹

1545–55; < Latin vātīcānus ( mōns ) Vatican (hill)

Word History and Origins

Origin of Vatican¹

C16: from Latin Vāticānus mons Vatican hill, on the western bank of the Tiber, of Etruscan origin

Example Sentences

Archbishop Paul Sayah, deputy to Lebanon's highest-ranking Catholic leader, told the BBC the Vatican was "studying" the trip but that the church was still waiting for official dates.

From BBC

The Vatican and Saudi Arabia were also mentioned by Ukraine as possible locations.

From BBC

It echoed the approach of his predecessor, Francis, who opened Vatican buildings as shelters and quietly dined with marginalized groups.

From Salon

"We're going to the Vatican in a few weeks' time and it is not as much money."

From BBC

The Vatican has not yet announced when the official ceremony will take place.

From BBC

Related Words

• pontiff