1. a large oblong hall or building with double colonnades and a semicircular apse, used in ancient Rome as a court of law or for public assemblies
Usage: historical; architecture
2. an early Christian church built in the form of a Roman basilica
Usage: architecture; religious
3. a Roman Catholic church given ceremonial privileges
Usage: religious

Examples

• The ancient Roman basilica served as both courthouse and marketplace.
• St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City is one of the most famous churches in the world.
• The basilica’s high ceilings and marble columns impressed all visitors.
• Early Christians adapted the Roman basilica design for their places of worship.
• The Pope granted the church basilica status in recognition of its historical importance.
• Tourists flocked to see the beautiful mosaics in the Byzantine basilica.