Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • The capital city of Italy: A major European city located on the Tiber River, historically the center of the Roman Republic and Roman Empire, and now the seat of the Italian government.
   • The center of the Roman Catholic Church: Refers to the city as the headquarters of the Catholic Church, where the Pope resides, often used metonymically to represent the Church's leadership or authority.

Examples of Usage

• As a city:
  • We spent a week visiting the ancient ruins in Rome.
  • Rome is famous for its art, architecture, and history.
• As the center of the Catholic Church:
  • The decision was ultimately made by Rome.
  • He traveled to Rome to meet with church officials.

Advanced Usage

• "All roads lead to Rome": This proverb means that many different methods or paths can lead to the same goal or result.
  • You can solve this math problem in several ways; all roads lead to Rome.
• "Rome wasn't built in a day": This idiom emphasizes that important or great achievements take time and patience to complete.
  • Be patient with your language learning; remember, Rome wasn't built in a day.

Variants and Related Words

• Roman (adj): Of or relating to the city of Rome, its ancient empire, or the Catholic Church.
  • Roman architecture has influenced buildings worldwide.
• Roman (n): A citizen of ancient Rome or the modern city.
  • The Romans built an extensive network of roads.

Synonyms

• The Eternal City: A poetic name for Rome, emphasizing its enduring history and significance.
• The Holy See: Refers specifically to the jurisdiction and authority of the Pope in Rome.

Related Idioms

• "When in Rome, do as the Romans do": This proverb advises that when you are in a foreign place or new situation, you should follow the local customs and behaviors.
  • I don't usually eat dinner so late, but when in Rome, do as the Romans do.
• "Fiddle while Rome burns": To be preoccupied with trivial matters during a crisis. This references the legend of Emperor Nero playing music while Rome was on fire.
  • The politicians were arguing about minor details while the economy collapsed—they were fiddling while Rome burned.

Noun

1. the leadership of the Roman Catholic Church
2. capital and largest city of Italy; on the Tiber; seat of the Roman Catholic Church; formerly the capital of the Roman Republic and the Roman Empire