Langimage
English

nuncio

|nun-ci-o|

C2

🇺🇸

/ˈnʌntʃioʊ/

🇬🇧

/ˈnʌntʃiəʊ/

papal messenger/ envoy

Etymology
Etymology Information

'nuncio' originates from Italian, specifically the word 'nunzio', where Latin 'nuntius' meant 'messenger'.

Historical Evolution

'nuncio' changed from the Latin word 'nuntius' through Italian 'nunzio' and eventually became the modern English word 'nuncio'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'messenger', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a papal diplomatic representative (papal envoy)'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

an official diplomatic representative of the Holy See (the pope), especially one accredited to a foreign government; a papal envoy or ambassador.

The nuncio presented his credentials to the president.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/12/10 11:15