Italian: meaning, definitions and examples

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Italian

 

[ ɪˈtæliən ]

Noun
Languages
Context #1 | Noun

nationality, language

Italian refers to anything related to Italy, including its people, language, and culture. As a language, it is a Romance language that evolved from Latin and is primarily spoken in Italy, Switzerland, and parts of Croatia and Slovenia. The Italian culture is rich in history, art, and cuisine, making it a significant influence on various aspects of Western civilization.

Synonyms

Italian language, Italo, Italy.

Examples of usage

  • She is learning Italian to prepare for her trip to Rome.
  • Italian cuisine is famous for its pasta and pizza.
  • He enjoys listening to Italian opera.

Etymology

The term 'Italian' originates from the Latin word 'Italianus', which means 'of Italy'. The Italian language itself evolved from the Vulgar Latin spoken by the common people of ancient Rome. Throughout the Middle Ages, various dialects emerged in different regions of Italy due to the political fragmentation of the country. The unification of Italy in the 19th century played a crucial role in the standardization of the Italian language. The Renaissance also had a profound impact, as intellectuals and artists promoted the use of the language in literature and art, leading to its rich cultural heritage that is celebrated today.