Italian
|i-ta-li-an|
A2
🇺🇸
/ɪˈtæliən/
🇬🇧
/ɪˈtæl.jən/
of or from Italy
Etymology
Etymology Information
'Italian' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'Italianus', where 'Italia' referred to 'Italy'.
Historical Evolution
'Italian' changed from Medieval Latin 'italianus' into Old French 'italien' and then entered Middle English, eventually becoming the modern English word 'Italian'.
Meaning Changes
Initially it meant 'of or pertaining to Italy' (and by extension 'a person from Italy'); over time the core meanings (relating to Italy and the people/language of Italy) have been retained.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a person from Italy or of Italian descent.
She is an Italian who moved to New York.
Synonyms
Antonyms
non-Italian
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/12/18 15:04