Basilical

Part of speech: adjective

Definitions

1. Pertaining to an architectural style that features a central nave bordered by aisles and often includes a semicircular apse
2. Related to structures resembling a basilica in their long, rectangular shape, often used for religious purposes
3. Connected to a basilica's traditional architectural form with a central hall and side aisles ; having characteristics similar to a basilica, especially in shape or use as a public or religious building

Etymology: Roman basilicas were not churches. The first ones, built from the 2nd century BCE, were large public halls where merchants traded and magistrates heard cases. The name comes from the Greek "basilikē", meaning "royal" hall, from "basileus", "king." Their plan, a long central nave flanked by side aisles, proved so practical that early Christians adopted it for their churches, and it has shaped church design ever since. "Basilical" is the adjective formed by adding "-al" to the noun, describing things shaped like that old hall or used in the same way. The same Greek root lies behind "basil", the herb whose name derives from a term for royal or kingly, and "basilisk", from "basiliskos", meaning "little king," the name of a legendary serpent.

Synonyms: churchlike, cathedral-like, sacred, religious, spiritual