vatican

word

/ˈvætɪkən/
VAT-i-kuhn
/ˈvætɪkən/
VAT-i-kuhn

Definition

The Vatican is a small independent city-state in Rome, Italy, which is the center of the Roman Catholic Church and the home of the Pope.

Usage & Nuances

Always capitalized as a proper noun. Refers mainly to 'Vatican City' (official country) but also to the Catholic Church hierarchy, especially in phrases like 'the Vatican announced.' Common collocations: 'the Vatican,' 'Vatican City,' 'Vatican officials.'

Example Sentences

The Vatican is in Rome.

basic

Many tourists visit the Vatican every year.

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The Pope lives in the Vatican.

basic

Have you ever seen the inside of the Vatican Museum?

natural

The Vatican announced a new holiday last week.

natural

If you want to send a letter to the Vatican, use the special postal code!

natural