Definition

Proper noun A historic city in northeastern Italy, the capital of the Veneto region. It is renowned for being built on a series of 118 small islands separated by canals and linked by bridges within a shallow lagoon in the Gulf of Venice. It is famous for its unique canal-based transportation system, architectural and artistic heritage, and its status as a major cultural and tourist destination.

Usage

"Venice" is used as the name of the specific city. It functions as a singular proper noun. * We spent three days exploring Venice. * Venice is often called "The Floating City." * The history of Venice is fascinating.

Advanced Usage

• "The Venice of the North": A metaphorical title given to other cities with extensive canal networks, such as Amsterdam or Stockholm.
  • St. Petersburg is sometimes called the Venice of the North.
• Used metonymically to refer to the Venetian Republic, its government, or its historical influence.
  • The power of Venice declined in the 17th century.

Variants and Related Words

• Venetian (adjective): Of or relating to Venice.
  • Venetian architecture is distinctive.
• Venetian (noun): A native or inhabitant of Venice.
  • The Venetians were skilled sailors and merchants.
• Veneto (proper noun): The Italian region of which Venice is the capital.

Synonyms

• The Serenissima: A historical title for the Republic of Venice, meaning "The Most Serene."
• The Queen of the Adriatic: A poetic name for Venice.

Idioms and Phrases

• "All roads lead to Venice": A variation of the classic saying, sometimes used to emphasize the city's historical importance as a commercial and cultural crossroads.
• "See Venice and die" ("Vedi Venezia e poi muori"): A saying, adapted from the original about Naples, expressing the idea that after seeing the beauty of Venice, one's life is complete.

Noun

1. the provincial capital of Veneto; built on 118 islands within a lagoon in the Gulf of Venice; has canals instead of streets; one of Italy's major ports and a famous tourist attraction