basilica

ba·sil·i·ca  (b-sl-k) n. 1. a. A public building of ancient Rome having a central nave with an apse at one or both ends and two side aisles formed by rows of columns, which was used as a courtroom or assembly hall. b. A Christian church building of a similar design, having a nave with a semicircular apse, two or four side aisles, a narthex, and a clerestory. 2. Roman Catholic Church A church that has been accorded certain privileges by the pope. [Latin, from Greek basilik, from feminine of basilikos, royal, from basileus, king.] ba·sili·can (-kn) adj.

basilica after a plan of fourth-centurya.d. St. Peter's, Rome A. apse B. transept C. nave D. aisles E. narthex F. atrium

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basilica

Noun

1. a Roman building, used for public administration, which is rectangular with two aisles and a rounded end

2. a Christian church of similar design [Greek basilikē oikia the king's house]

Thesaurus

Noun	1.	basilica - an early Christian church designed like a Roman basilica; or a Roman Catholic church or cathedral accorded certain privileges; "the church was raised to the rank of basilica" church building, church - a place for public (especially Christian) worship; "the church was empty" narthex - portico at the west end of an early Christian basilica or church
	2.	basilica - a Roman building used for public administration Roman basilica Roman building - a building constructed by the ancient Romans