Heather Broster
The Italian word for the ornaments we hang on the tree at Christmastime is addobbo (or more specifically addobbo natalizio), derived from the verb addobbare, meaning “to adorn, decorate, or deck out.” Because it is a masculine noun beginning with a vowel, it takes the following definite and indefinite articles: Ho comprato degli addobbi da …
What’s the plant that encourages people to share a kiss underneath it? Well, it’s mistletoe, of course, known as vischio in the Italian language! vischio mistletoe Vischio is a masculine noun that takes the following definite and indefinite articles: Si sono baciati sotto al vischio. They kissed underneath the mistletoe. Rooted in Norse mythology, mistletoe …
In our Facebook group, a common question we come across relates to the suffixes -uccio and -uccia. Many of our readers share that these suffixes were frequently added to their given names, yet their significance remained unknown to them. But before we delve into the meaning of -uccio and -uccia, it is important to touch …
One of the most recognisable symbols of Christmas is the nutcracker, known as a schiaccianoci in Italian. Schiaccianoci is made up of two parts: the verb schiacciare (to crush) and the plural noun noci (walnuts). It is an invariable masculine noun, which means its form does not change in the plural. Dove vogliamo mettere lo …
The widely used Italian idiom essere in gamba is used to describe someone who is exceptionally skilled, intelligent, competent, or capable. Some common English translations include: essere in gamba to be very capable Literally translated, it means “to be on the leg,” suggesting the idea of being on one’s feet and ready to take on …
One of the most amusing memories I have from the past year involves strolling around Cardiff with my dad and young son, who speaks Italian as his first language. Out of the blue, my dad turns to me and asks, “What does ‘a-choo‘ mean?” It took me a moment to realise he had caught onto …