How Do You Spell LATERAN?

Pronunciation: [lˈatəɹən] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "Lateran" is derived from Latium, the region of Italy that includes Rome. Its pronunciation /lætərən/ is characterized by a schwa sound in the second syllable, followed by an emphasized 'r' sound. The word refers to the Lateran Palace, which served as the residence of the popes until the 14th century. It is also the site of the Lateran Treaty of 1929, which established Vatican City as an independent state within Italy.

LATERAN Meaning and Definition

  1. Lateran (noun):

    1. The Lateran, also known as the Lateran Palace, refers to a historic building complex situated in Rome, Italy. It includes several structures, such as the Basilica of St. John Lateran, which is the oldest and highest-ranking papal basilica in the city and represents the official ecclesiastical seat of the Bishop of Rome, also known as the Pope. Additionally, the Lateran Palace historically served as the residence of the Popes until they moved to the Vatican Palace. It is worth noting that the term "Lateran" often refers to the entire complex, including the basilica and other adjoining buildings.

    2. Alternatively, the term "Lateran Treaty" pertains to an agreement signed in 1929 between the Holy See (the central governing body of the Roman Catholic Church) and the Kingdom of Italy. This treaty marked the end of the so-called "Roman Question," the long-standing dispute between the Italian government and the Papacy regarding their territories. As part of the treaty, the Lateran Palace was recognized as independent territory, establishing Vatican City as a sovereign nation-state. Additionally, the treaty established various provisions regarding the relationship between the Italian government and the Catholic Church, such as recognizing Catholicism as the state religion of Italy and granting financial compensation to the Holy See for loss of territories.

  2. One of the churches at Rome with a palace and other buildings annexed.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for LATERAN

Etymology of LATERAN

The word "Lateran" is derived from the Latin term "Lateranum", which itself is believed to come from the name of the ancient Roman noble family, the "Laterni". The Laterani family owned a large estate that included the land where the Lateran Palace was eventually built. Thus, over time, the term "Lateran" came to be associated specifically with this palace and the various religious institutions associated with it, such as the Lateran Basilica.

Similar spelling word for LATERAN

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