Italian: meaning, definitions and examples

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Italian

[ɪˈtæliən ]

Definition

^{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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term 'Italian' comes from 'Italia', the Latin name for Italy, which has its roots in ancient tribes like the Italic peoples.
In the early Middle Ages, the word referred specifically to the people living in the southern part of the Italian peninsula before it encompassed the whole nation.
Italian is a Romance language, which means it evolved from Latin, just like French and Spanish.

Cuisine

Italian cuisine emphasizes fresh ingredients, with staples including tomatoes, olive oil, and various herbs.
Pasta is one of the most iconic dishes, with over 600 types produced throughout the country.
Italy is also famous for its cheeses, especially mozzarella and parmesan, both integral to many traditional dishes.

Art and Literature

The Renaissance period, which began in Italy, greatly influenced art and culture across Europe, with figures like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo.
Italian literature boasts classics like Dante's 'Divine Comedy', seen as a milestone in early poetry.
The operatic tradition is strong in Italy, with composers like Verdi and Puccini shaping the genre with dramatic storytelling and vibrant music.

History

Italy was once home to ancient civilizations like the Romans and Etruscans, producing significant cultural advancements.
The unification of Italy in the 19th century marked the transition from a collection of city-states to a single nation.
Fascism, which rose in Italy in the early 20th century, had a profound impact on global politics and culture.

Fashion

Italy is renowned as a global fashion hub, with cities like Milan recognized for their influence in design and retail.
Many prestigious fashion brands, such as Gucci, Prada, and Versace, originate from Italy, symbolizing luxury and style.
The Italian fashion week is one of the most important events in the international fashion calendar, showcasing the latest trends.