Basilicae
/bəˈsɪl.ɪ.kiː/noun
Plural of basilica, referring to large public buildings or churches built in the basilica style.
Did you know?Basilica comes from Greek βασιλική (basilikē), meaning “royal,” from βασιλεύς (basileus), “king,” so one of Christianity’s most important building words began as a word for royalty.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
βασιλική (basilikē)
“A royal hall or royal building; feminine form of an adjective meaning “royal.””
Late Latin
Latin
basilica
“A large public hall or court building used for business and law.”
Post-Classical Latin
Latin
basilicae
“Plural of basilica.”
Old French
Old French
basilique
“A church of special rank.”
Modern English
English
basilicae
“Plural of basilica, especially in historical or ecclesiastical contexts.”