Definition

A cardinal in the Roman Catholic Church who is responsible for the financial and administrative affairs of the Vatican.

Example

The camerlengo announced the new policies regarding the Vatican's finances.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new camerlengo in the Vatican?

Yeah, I read that he's been making some interesting changes.

I wonder how a camerlengo actually gets chosen for that role.

It's usually a big deal; they have a lot of responsibilities.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Camerlengo → The word originates from Italian 'camerlengo', which is derived from 'camera' (meaning chamber) and 'lengo' (meaning chamberlain). The term refers to an official in charge of the papal household, literally meaning the chamberlain of the chamber.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'chamber' ('camera') and a person who manages it ('lengo') — that's why a camerlengo is the official in charge of the papal chamber.

Visually Confused Words