Definition

Proper noun: A region in southern Italy, located in the instep of the Italian peninsula's "boot"-shaped outline. It is an administrative region known for its rugged, mountainous interior and coastlines on both the Tyrrhenian and Ionian Seas.

Usage

• As a geographical/political entity:
  • Basilicata is less frequented by tourists than other Italian regions.
  • The capital of Basilicata is Potenza.
• Referring to its characteristics:
  • The ancient history of Basilicata is fascinating.
  • We traveled through the hills of Basilicata.

Advanced Usage

• "the heart of Basilicata": used to describe its central, often remote, mountainous areas.
  • The small, ancient villages in the heart of Basilicata are incredibly preserved.
• Historical/alternative name "Lucania": While "Basilicata" is the modern official name, the historical name "Lucania" is sometimes used in cultural or historical contexts.
  • The ancient region of Lucania corresponds roughly to modern-day Basilicata.

Variants and Related Words

• Lucanian (adj): Pertaining to the region of Basilicata or its ancient inhabitants.
  • The Lucanian countryside is very dramatic.
• Basilicatan (adj): Less common alternative adjective meaning "of or from Basilicata."

Synonyms

• Lucania (historical name)

Related Phrases

(This word, as a proper noun for a specific region, does not have phrasal verbs or idioms based on it. Common phrases involve its use as a location.) - In Basilicata: indicating location within the region. - They have a farmhouse in Basilicata. - To Basilicata: indicating movement toward the region. - The road trip to Basilicata was long but scenic.

Noun

1. a region of southern Italy (forming the instep of the Italian `boot')