LOANWORDS IN ITALIAN

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Italian is a language shaped not only by its Latin roots but also by centuries of interaction with other cultures, conquests, trade, and migration. Let's explore how vocabulary from other languages has influenced Italian, enriching it with layers of meaning, nuance, and regional color. 

Words from French, Arabic, Spanish, German, and English—among others—have found their way into everyday Italian. From “garage” and “boutique” to “arancia” (from Arabic) and “schermo” (from Germanic roots), these words are proof that language is a living, evolving entity.

We recommend revisiting these words often and trying to spot them in articles, films, or conversations. Being able to trace the origin of a word can also provide helpful context for pronunciation and spelling. If you already speak English or French, for instance, you’ll notice many familiar structures that can speed up your learning. Once you’ve absorbed these loanwords, continue exploring Italian through our Grammar and Conversation sections, where you’ll see how foreign-derived terms function in full sentences.

Make Italian your own, one borrowed word at a time.

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Russian Loanwords in Italian

The influence of Russian on Italian vocabulary is relatively limited compared to languages like English or French, but it exists—especially in areas related to politics, history, literature, and cuisine. Many Russian words entered Italian in the 20th century during periods of political upheaval, cultural exchange, and international fascination with Russian writers and revolutionaries. While some words remain niche or academic, others have become familiar in journalism, literature, and casual speech. Below is a list of notable loanwords that Italian has adopted from Russian, often keeping close to their original pronunciation or meaning.

borsch beetroot-based soup
zar tsar, former Russian emperor
sputnik artificial satellite
gulag forced labor camp system
pogrom mob attack, often against Jewish communities
perestroika political and economic reform
kolchoz collective farm
soviet workers’ council or governing body
cosmonauta cosmonaut, astronaut in Russian program
babushka grandmother or elderly woman (also a headscarf)
balalaika Russian stringed instrument
samovar traditional Russian tea urn
dacia country house or rural vacation home
tovarish comrade
intelligentsia intellectual elite
apparatchik bureaucratic political functionary
bolscevico Bolshevik revolutionary
troika group of three or traditional Russian sleigh
kasha grain-based porridge

Ukrainian Loanwords in Italian

The Ukrainian language has contributed a modest but meaningful set of loanwords to Italian, mostly through cultural exchange, immigration, and growing interest in Eastern European cuisine, history, and geopolitics. While not as widespread as borrowings from Russian or English, these words reflect Ukraine’s unique identity and its increasing visibility in Italian media, literature, and everyday conversations—especially in recent years. Many of these terms relate to traditional foods, cultural practices, or political realities that have entered the Italian lexicon in specific contexts.

borsch beetroot soup (variant common to Ukrainian cuisine)
verenyky stuffed dumplings, similar to ravioli
holubtsi cabbage rolls filled with rice and meat
salo salted pork fat, a national delicacy
hryvnia national currency of Ukraine
hetman historical military leader or chief of the Cossacks
kozako Cossack, member of historic warrior communities
pysanka decorated Easter egg made using wax-resist technique
kobza traditional Ukrainian string instrument
rushnyk ritual embroidered cloth used in ceremonies
vyshyvanka embroidered shirt with symbolic folk patterns
maidan public square, often used to refer to political protests
zabava party or festive gathering, especially with music and dance
bandura Ukrainian plucked instrument similar to a lute
krainka folk song or dance in Ukrainian tradition
kozachok fast-paced Ukrainian folk dance
batkivshchyna motherland or homeland
steppe vast grassland region, common in Ukrainian geography
trizub trident, national symbol of Ukraine

German Loanwords in Italian

The German language has influenced the Italian language in several subtle but lasting ways, especially in the northern regions where historical contact between German-speaking and Italian-speaking communities has been strongest. Loanwords from German typically entered Italian through trade, military interaction, and cultural exchange, particularly during the Austro-Hungarian period in regions like Trentino-Alto Adige and Friuli. Many of these terms relate to food, household items, clothing, and alpine culture. While some are widespread, others remain regional or dialectal, reflecting local identity and long-standing coexistence.

birra (Bier) beer
fön (Föhn) hairdryer
kitsch (Kitsch) art or design considered to be in poor taste but popular
leitmotiv (Leitmotiv) recurring theme or idea
muesli (Müsli) grain and dried fruit breakfast cereal
blitz (Blitz) sudden and fast attack or action
bunker (Bunker) fortified shelter or underground defense
hinterland (Hinterland) inland area behind a coast or urban center
diesel (Diesel) type of fuel or engine
diktat (Diktat) harsh or imposed command
balcone (Balkon) balcony
guanto (Wante) glove
speck (Speck) cured pork fat or smoked ham
strudel (Strudel) layered pastry with fruit or savory filling
vagone (Wagen) train carriage or wagon
berretto (Barett) cap or hat
borsa (Börse) bag or purse and also stock exchange
targa (Targe) plate or plaque, especially license plate
stelvio (Stilfserjoch) mountain pass in the Italian Alps
krauti (Kraut) cabbage, often pickled as sauerkraut
marzapane (Marzipan) sweet almond paste confection
garzone (Garzone) apprentice or young helper
carrozza (Karosse) carriage or vehicle
giacca (Jacke) jacket or coat
accisa (Abschätzung) excise tax or duty

Japanese Loanwords in Italian

The Japanese language has contributed a small but distinctive group of loanwords to Italian, mostly through cultural exchange in the fields of cuisine, martial arts, fashion, and popular media. These terms have entered Italian in recent decades, especially with the growing popularity of sushi, anime, and Japanese design. Most of these words are used without translation because they refer to culturally specific items or practices that don’t have exact Italian equivalents. Below is a list of Japanese loanwords commonly found in modern Italian.

sushi (すし) vinegared rice with raw fish or other toppings
kimono (着物) traditional Japanese garment
samurai (侍) feudal warrior from Japan
anime (アニメ) Japanese animated series or film
manga (漫画) Japanese comic book or graphic novel
karate (空手) martial art using unarmed combat techniques
judo (柔道) Japanese martial art based on throws and grappling
geisha (芸者) traditional female entertainer skilled in arts and conversation
tatami (畳) woven mat used as flooring in traditional Japanese rooms
bento (弁当) packed meal served in a compartmentalized box
origami (折り紙) art of paper folding
tsunami (津波) large ocean wave caused by underwater disturbance
karaoke (カラオケ) sing-along entertainment with instrumental backing tracks
zen (禅) school of meditation in Japanese Buddhism
bonsai (盆栽) miniature tree cultivated in a pot
ninja (忍者) covert agent or mercenary in feudal Japan
shogun (将軍) military ruler of Japan in the pre-modern era
harakiri (腹切り) ritual suicide by disembowelment
sake (酒) Japanese rice wine
tempura (天ぷら) battered and deep-fried seafood or vegetables

Albanian Loanwords in Italian

Albanian has contributed only a small number of loanwords to Italian, mostly in regions with historical and geographical proximity such as southern Italy and especially in areas influenced by the Arbëreshë communities—Albanian-speaking groups who settled in Italy between the 15th and 18th centuries. These borrowings are typically regional, relating to rural life, agriculture, family, or local customs. Although not widespread in standard Italian, they remain a trace of the long-standing cultural exchange across the Adriatic Sea. Here is a selection of Italian words with Albanian origins.

çeta (çetë) band or small armed group
karbunaro (karbunár) charcoal burner or coal seller
breg (breg) slope or hill (used regionally)
vajza (vajzë) girl or young woman (used in Arbëreshë dialects)
katund (katund) village or rural settlement
shkurt (shkurt) short or abbreviated (used in dialectal expressions)
kodra (kodër) hill or small elevation (regional usage)
plaka (plakë) old woman or elder
burri (burrë) man or husband
djale (djalë) boy or son
bukë (bukë) bread (used in Arbëreshë communities)
gjak (gjak) blood (used in idioms or metaphoric contexts)
luan (luan) lion (name and symbolic reference)
kushëri (kushëri) cousin or relative (Arbëreshë dialect)
trima (trim) brave man or warrior
derë (derë) door or household lineage (used metaphorically)
mall (mall) goods or merchandise
zog (zog) bird
vesh (vesh) ear or clothing (depending on context)
rrugë (rrugë) road or path (influential in dialects)

These words, while not always present in standard Italian dictionaries, reflect a living heritage in dialects and family speech among communities with Albanian roots. They also underscore the deep cultural bonds that connect Italy and Albania across the sea and through centuries.

Bulgarian Loanwords in Italian

Loanwords from Bulgarian into Italian are extremely rare, as the two languages belong to different linguistic families and have had limited direct contact historically. However, a few words—mostly through Balkan trade, Slavic influence, or modern cultural exchange—have filtered into Italian, especially in regional dialects or via shared Balkan cuisine and traditions. Many of these borrowings are more likely to be found in border regions or among communities with ties to Eastern Europe. Below is a selection of words of possible or partial Bulgarian origin that have entered Italian, often through oral transmission or cultural borrowing.

banitza (баница) traditional pastry with cheese and eggs
ajvar (айвар) pepper-based condiment or spread
rakia (ракия) fruit brandy popular in the Balkans
kavarma (каварма) meat stew typically baked in a clay pot
lukanka (луканка) dry cured spicy sausage
kiseljak (киселец) sorrel or fermented mineral water
slivovitz (сливовица) plum brandy
shopka (шопка) type of Bulgarian salad with cheese and vegetables
zurna (зурна) traditional woodwind instrument
gaida (гайда) Bulgarian bagpipe
horo (хоро) traditional circle dance
mehana (механа) rustic tavern or inn with folk décor
sarmi (сарми) stuffed cabbage or grape leaves
tarator (таратор) cold yogurt and cucumber soup
cheverme (чеверме) spit-roasted whole lamb or meat
komit (комит) freedom fighter or rebel in Balkan history
baba (баба) grandmother or old woman
chushka (чушка) pepper (vegetable)
mlqko (мляко) milk
sirene (сирене) white brined cheese similar to feta

Armenian Loanwords in Italian

While the number of Armenian loanwords in Italian is quite limited, their presence reflects centuries of historical contact—especially through trade routes, the Armenian diaspora, and cultural exchange in port cities such as Venice and Genoa. The Armenian community played a notable role in commerce and publishing in early modern Italy, and some words entered Italian either directly from Armenian or via intermediary languages like Turkish or Persian. These borrowings are most often found in the realms of food, fabric, and artisan traditions, with a few religious or historical terms as well.

caftano (քաֆթան kaftan) long robe or tunic
carcasso (քարքաշ karkash) pack animal or load bearer (via Turkish and Armenian)
tamarindo (թամար tamar) tamarind fruit (possibly via Persian/Armenian trade routes)
pashà (փաշա pasha) governor or noble title (through Ottoman Turkish with Armenian mediation)
zenzero (զենջաֆիլ zenjafil) ginger (possibly filtered through Armenian from Persian sources)
misk (մուշկ mushk) musk, fragrant substance (via Armenian and Arabic)
stambuglio (ստամբուղ stambugh) Venetian dialect word for market noise or crowd, possibly from Armenian for Istanbul/market context
samovar (սամովար samovar) tea urn (shared Russian-Armenian usage; came into Italian via cultural borrowing)

Estonian Loanwords in Italian

Loanwords from Estonian into Italian are extremely rare. Estonian, a Finno-Ugric language spoken by a relatively small population, has had limited direct historical or cultural contact with Italy compared to languages like French, English, or German. As a result, very few Estonian-origin words have entered Italian, and those that have are usually specialized terms, proper names, or cultural references rather than everyday vocabulary.

However, a few Estonian words may appear in Italian in specific contexts such as ethnography, music, folklore, or cuisine, often preserved in academic or literary texts. These words are typically not assimilated into common Italian usage but are recognized as part of Estonian cultural identity.

kannel (kannel) traditional Estonian string instrument similar to a zither
rahvas (rahvas) people or folk (used in cultural discussions)
laulupidu (laulupidu) Estonian Song Festival
leelo (leelo) traditional polyphonic folk song style
savisaar (Savisaar) surname of a notable Estonian politician (used in historical/political texts)
kalevipoeg (Kalevipoeg) hero of the Estonian national epic
viro (Viro) older Italian exonym for Estonia, from Finnish "Viro"

Georgian Loanwords in Italian

Loanwords from Georgian into Italian are extremely rare and limited mostly to cultural references, proper nouns, and a few specialized terms relating to Georgian cuisine, religion, or history. The Georgian language (ქართული kartuli), a South Caucasian language with its own unique script and long-standing literary tradition, has had relatively little direct contact with the Italian language. However, with increasing interest in Georgia’s culture, gastronomy, and winemaking, a few Georgian terms have made their way into Italian usage—mainly in culinary, historical, or academic contexts.

khachapuri (ხაჭაპური) cheese-filled bread, a national Georgian dish
satsivi (საცივი) walnut-based sauce served with poultry
shashlik (შაშლიკი) grilled skewered meat (also found via Russian and Caucasian cuisine)
supra (სუფრა) traditional Georgian feast with rituals and many toasts
tamada (თამადა) toastmaster or leader of the feast
qvevri (ქვევრი) large clay vessel used for traditional Georgian wine-making
chacha (ჩაჩა) Georgian grape vodka or pomace brandy
tskheli khinkali (ცხელი ხინკალი) hot Georgian dumplings filled with meat or herbs
tbilisi (თბილისი) name of the Georgian capital, used in Italian without change
kakhuri (კახური) related to the Kakheti region, often in wine terminology
kartveli (ქართველი) Georgian person (sometimes used in ethnographic or linguistic contexts)
sakartvelo (საქართველო) Georgia (the country itself, occasionally used to distinguish from Georgia U.S.A.)
mtkvari (მტკვარი) name of the main river running through Georgia
svaneti (სვანეთი) mountain region in northwestern Georgia known for towers and traditions
mukuzani (მუკუზანი) a type of Georgian red wine

Uzbek Loanwords in Italian

Loanwords from Uzbek into Italian are exceptionally rare, given the limited historical and cultural contact between the two regions. Uzbek, a Turkic language spoken primarily in Central Asia, has had minimal direct influence on the Italian lexicon. However, with the growing interest in Central Asian culture, cuisine, and the Silk Road, a few Uzbek terms—mostly culinary, historical, or cultural—have occasionally entered Italian, especially in journalistic, academic, or gastronomic contexts. These words are typically borrowed in their original form and retain a strong association with Uzbek identity and tradition.

plov (плов) rice pilaf with meat, carrots, and spices, the national dish of Uzbekistan
lagman (лағмон) hand-pulled noodle soup with vegetables and meat
samsa (самса) savory pastry filled with meat or vegetables, similar to a samosa
tandir (тандыр) traditional clay oven used for baking bread or roasting meat
non (нон) round flatbread central to Uzbek cuisine
navruz (наврӯз) Persian New Year celebrated in Uzbekistan and across Central Asia
kumis (қимиз) fermented mare’s milk, a traditional drink
chapan (чопон) long coat worn by Uzbek men, often colorful and patterned
dastarkhan (дастархан) traditional tablecloth or low dining setup for family meals
karakul (қаракул) breed of sheep known for its prized fur; also refers to the hat made from it
bazar (бозор) marketplace (shared term across Turkic and Persian languages)
mahalla (маҳалла) neighborhood or local community unit in Uzbek society
khiva (Хива) historic city in Uzbekistan, often used in cultural and travel contexts
bukhara (Бухоро) another ancient Silk Road city, known for carpets and architecture
samarkanda (Самарқанд) Samarkand, a legendary city of the Silk Road, rich in history
pilaf (pilaf) alternative word for plov used in translations or menus
suzani (сузани) embroidered textile traditionally made by Uzbek women

Swahili Loanwords in Italian

Loanwords from Swahili into Italian are few but notable, mainly due to colonial history, trade along the East African coast, and the international popularity of Swahili culture and vocabulary. Many of these words entered Italian either indirectly via English or through shared global discourse, especially in contexts such as wildlife, music, and popular culture. Though not widely used in standard Italian, these terms are recognized in journalism, tourism, and academic discussions about Africa and its cultures.

safari (safari) journey or expedition, especially for observing wildlife
simba (simba) lion
rafiki (rafiki) friend
bwana (bwana) sir or master (used historically in colonial contexts)
asante (asante) thank you
hakuna matata (hakuna matata) no worries, no problem
mamba (mamba) crocodile (sometimes also a type of snake)
jambo (jambo) hello or greeting
ngoma (ngoma) drum or traditional dance/music
karibu (karibu) welcome
nyama (nyama) meat or animal
safari njema (safari njema) have a good trip
uhuru (uhuru) freedom or independence
tanzania (Tanzania) name of the country, from Tanganyika + Zanzibar (with Swahili roots)
zanzibar (Zanzibar) island region of Tanzania, rich in Swahili culture
kilimangiaro (Kilimanjaro) mountain name of Swahili origin
maasai (Maasai) ethnic group often associated with Kenya and Tanzania

Kazakh Loanwords in Italian

Loanwords from Kazakh into Italian are exceedingly rare due to minimal direct historical, cultural, or linguistic contact between Kazakhstan and Italy. Kazakh is a Turkic language spoken primarily in Central Asia, and while Kazakhstan has gained increased visibility through diplomacy, sports, and cultural outreach, its linguistic influence on Italian has been limited to a few specialized terms, mostly in the fields of geography, traditional culture, cuisine, and anthropology. These words often appear in journalistic, academic, or travel contexts rather than in everyday Italian speech.

yurta (юрта) traditional circular tent used by nomadic peoples of Central Asia
kumis (қымыз) fermented mare’s milk, a traditional Kazakh drink
besbarmak (бесбармақ) Kazakhstan’s national dish made of boiled meat and pasta
akyn (ақын) folk poet or singer, often performing oral poetry
dombra (домбыра) traditional two-stringed Kazakh instrument
khan (хан) tribal ruler or noble (used historically and culturally)
steppe (степь) vast flat grassland typical of Central Asia (via Russian, but referencing Kazakh geography)
shubat (шұбат) fermented camel milk
baursak (бауырсақ) fried dough balls served during celebrations or meals
tengri (Тәңір) ancient Turkic sky god (appears in academic or historical texts)
tengiz (теңіз) sea or large lake (used in names like "Tengiz oil field")
almaty (Алматы) former capital of Kazakhstan, appears in proper names and travel writing
astana (Астана) capital city (now called Nur-Sultan, but still widely referenced)
nursultan (Нұр-Сұлтан) modern capital of Kazakhstan (official name 2019–2022)
kazako (қазақ) Kazakh person (used in Italian to refer to ethnicity or nationality)

Serbian Loanwords in Italian

Loanwords from Serbian into Italian are relatively limited but noticeable, especially in regional dialects of northeastern Italy and through historical, military, culinary, and cultural contacts in the Balkans. Many such words entered Italian not exclusively from Serbian but via Serbo-Croatian, the broader language once spoken across Yugoslavia. These loanwords are often found in informal speech, journalistic texts, or culinary contexts, especially in areas like Trieste, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, or along the Adriatic coast, where cross-cultural exchange was strongest.

ćevapčiči (ћевапчићи) grilled minced meat sausages
rakija (ракија) fruit brandy, common in the Balkans
slivovitz (шљивовица) plum brandy (a type of rakija)
burek (бурек) savory pie made with filo pastry, meat, or cheese
tambura (тамбура) traditional stringed musical instrument
vampa (вaтра) flame or blaze (used regionally in poetic or folk language)
gulasch (гулаш) meat stew, borrowed through Hungarian and Balkan cuisine
balcanico (балкански) Balkan, referring to the region (adjective)
kafana (кафана) traditional Balkan café or tavern
četnik (четник) historical term for Serbian guerrilla fighters (used in history texts)
drina (Дрина) name of the river between Bosnia and Serbia (appears in cultural or literary references)
Jugoslavia (Југославија) Yugoslavia (historical political term, from the Serbian spelling)
partizan (партизан) partisan, especially in WWII context
sarma (сарма) cabbage rolls stuffed with meat and rice
slava (слава) Serbian Orthodox family feast day
boza (боза) fermented sweet drink made from grains

French Loanwords in Italian

French loanwords in Italian are numerous and have played a significant role in shaping modern Italian vocabulary. This influence dates back to the Middle Ages and became particularly strong during the Renaissance, Napoleonic era, and the 20th century, when France was a cultural, military, and fashion superpower in Europe. Many of these borrowed words relate to fashion, art, military, cuisine, and administration, and many are fully assimilated into everyday Italian speech.

garage (garage) car parking area
boutique (boutique) small, specialized shop
chef (chef) head cook or leader in the kitchen
menu (menu) list of food options in a restaurant
buffet (buffet) self-service meal or food display
toilette (toilette) bathroom or personal grooming
balletto (ballet) ballet dance performance
vernissage (vernissage) art exhibition preview
dossier (dossier) report or file of documents
debutto (début) debut or first public appearance
collage (collage) artistic composition made by combining images
etichetta (étiquette) label or tag (also behavior code)
champagne (champagne) sparkling wine from France
camouflage (camouflage) military or visual disguise
valzer (valse) waltz (a ballroom dance)
corsetto (corset) tight-fitting undergarment
parrucca (perruque) wig
maquillage (maquillage) make-up
tappeto (tapis) carpet or rug
bistrot (bistrot) small casual restaurant or bar
décolleté (décolleté) low neckline on a dress
souvenir (souvenir) travel keepsake or memory
regime (régime) government system or diet plan
rendez-vous (rendez-vous) meeting or romantic appointment
chalet (chalet) alpine-style wooden house
garage (garage) garage or workshop
pantheon (panthéon) temple or hall for honoring the great
tournée (tournée) tour, often for artists or athletes
croissant (croissant) crescent-shaped pastry
fondue (fondue) melted cheese dish
bureau (bureau) office or desk
bluffare (bluffer) to bluff or deceive
prestigio (prestige) reputation or high status
élite (élite) social or intellectual upper class
chauffeur (chauffeur) driver
mirage (mirage) optical illusion or false hope
foyer (foyer) entrance hall or lounge

Polish Loanwords in Italian

Polish loanwords in Italian are relatively few, due to limited historical interaction between Poland and Italy compared to more influential languages like French, German, or English. However, certain terms have entered Italian either directly from Polish or indirectly via Russian, German, or Yiddish, especially in contexts related to history, Jewish culture, Eastern European food, and World War II. Some of these terms also appear in Italian journalism, academic writing, and cultural discussions.

pierogi (pierogi) filled dumplings, boiled or fried, traditional in Polish cuisine
mazurka (mazurek) traditional Polish folk dance in triple meter
polka (polka) fast-paced folk dance and musical genre
żubrówka (żubrówka) bison grass vodka from Poland
ghetto (getto) enclosed neighborhood, especially for Jews (though the word originated in Venice, it gained meaning through Polish and Eastern European history)
pogrom (pogrom) organized massacre, especially of Jews, used in historical contexts
solidarnosc (Solidarność) Solidarity movement, major Polish labor and political movement
lech (Lech) legendary founder of Poland, sometimes used symbolically in Italian texts
szlachta (szlachta) Polish nobility (appears in academic or historical literature)
sejm (Sejm) lower house of the Polish parliament (used in political science writing)
krakovia (Kraków) city of Kraków, often used in travel writing and history
lublino (Lublin) city in eastern Poland, appears in Holocaust-related discussions (e.g., "campo di Lublino")
polacca (Polka) Polish woman (also used as a musical term, "polacca" form in classical music)
polonio (polon) chemical element polonium, discovered by Marie Curie and named after Poland

Finnish Loanwords in Italian

Finnish loanwords in Italian are very rare, as there has been limited direct linguistic or cultural exchange between Finland and Italy over the centuries. Finnish, a Finno-Ugric language unrelated to the Romance languages, has had little lexical influence on Italian. However, a small number of specialized Finnish words appear in Italian, mainly in the context of design, music, literature, sports, and tourism. These words are often preserved in their original form and typically remain recognizable as foreign or exotic terms.

sauna  hot steam bath of Finnish origin
sisu concept of inner strength, determination, and perseverance
kalsarikännit getting drunk alone at home in your underwear (used humorously in Italian media)
jukka male Finnish name, appears in references to Finnish literature or art
Sibelius reference to Jean Sibelius, Finnish composer (used in music education and history)
Finlandia the country name in Italian, often associated with purity, education, and design
karelia region in eastern Finland with historical and cultural resonance
mökki small summer cabin, occasionally used in tourism marketing
Marimekko Finnish fashion and design brand, known in Italian design circles
salmiakki salty licorice candy, often mentioned in cultural or culinary contexts
Lappi  Lapland, the northern region of Finland (used in travel writing)
puukko traditional Finnish knife, found in ethnographic and historical texts
Joulupukki Finnish Santa Claus, used in Christmas tourism material
Suomi the name of Finland in Finnish, sometimes used in cultural contexts

Hungarian Loanwords in Italian

Loanwords from Hungarian into Italian are limited but noteworthy, especially in areas such as gastronomy, military history, and regional culture. Most of these borrowings entered Italian through contact during the Austro-Hungarian period, or via German or Slavic intermediaries, particularly in northeastern Italy. Although relatively few in number, these words reflect a fascinating cultural exchange between Central Europe and Italy, especially in the culinary and historical domains.

gulasch (gulyás) meat stew with paprika
paprika (paprika) spice made from dried pepper
tokaji (tokaji) sweet wine from the Tokaj region
csárdás (csárdás) traditional Hungarian folk dance and music style
puszta (puszta) vast treeless plain, typical of Hungary
hussardo (huszár) light cavalry soldier (origin of the word hussar)
pusta (puszta) rural steppe land in Hungary
czarda (csárda) rural tavern or inn
koboz (koboz) plucked string instrument used in folk music
vizsla (vizsla) Hungarian hunting dog breed
komondor (komondor) Hungarian livestock guardian dog with corded coat
csikós (csikós) traditional Hungarian horse herder
hortobágy (Hortobágy) steppe region in eastern Hungary known for folklore and herding
főzelék (főzelék) thick vegetable stew, often eaten as a main course
palinka (pálinka) fruit brandy typical of Hungary
langos (lángos) deep-fried flatbread often served with sour cream and cheese
dobos (dobos) layered chocolate and caramel cake
halászlé (halászlé) spicy Hungarian fish soup
túrós (túrós) cheese-based pastry or dish using soft curd cheese
rétes (rétes) strudel, especially with fruit or cheese filling

Norwegian Loanwords in Italian

Loanwords from Norwegian into Italian are quite rare, reflecting the limited but culturally significant contact between the two countries. Most of the Norwegian terms that have entered Italian are related to geography, folklore, winter sports, and Scandinavian traditions. These words are often preserved in their original form and tend to appear in specific contexts such as travel writing, lifestyle journalism, or mythology. While they are not part of everyday Italian conversation, they enrich the language with references to the unique natural and cultural world of Norway.

fjord narrow sea inlet bordered by steep cliffs
troll mythical creature from Scandinavian folklore
kraken legendary sea monster from Nordic mythology
ski winter sport involving sliding on snow
slalom winding downhill ski course
lutefisk dried fish soaked in lye, traditional Norwegian dish
viking Norse seafarer or warrior from medieval Scandinavia
saga epic narrative from Norse or Icelandic tradition
fjordlandia region of western Norway known for fjords
nobel used in reference to the Nobel Peace Prize awarded in Oslo
hygge cozy and content Scandinavian lifestyle concept
sami indigenous people of northern Scandinavia
aurora boreale northern lights, natural light display in the Arctic
stavekirke traditional wooden Norwegian church
fjordhorse small, strong horse breed native to Norway
hardanger style of embroidery or traditional Norwegian fiddle
rosemaling traditional decorative Norwegian painting style

Romanian Loanwords in Italian

Loanwords from Romanian into Italian are relatively limited, but they exist in areas such as music, folklore, cuisine, and regional interactions, particularly in the northeastern regions of Italy where contact with Eastern Europe is more frequent. Romanian, a Romance language like Italian, shares a common Latin foundation, which sometimes makes distinguishing true loanwords from inherited vocabulary more complex. However, several distinctly Romanian terms have entered Italian, often through cultural exchange, immigration, or literature.

doina melancholic traditional Romanian folk song
mămăligă cornmeal porridge similar to polenta
vampiro vampire, popularized through Romanian folklore (Dracula legend)
Dracula mythical vampire character based on Vlad Țepeș
carpați Carpathians, mountain range referenced in geography and literature
Ceaușescu used as a historical or political reference
vala Wallachian, relating to the historical region of Țara Românească
transilvania Transylvania, region often mentioned in literature and travel writing
miorița traditional Romanian ballad, referenced in comparative literature
țuică Romanian plum brandy, occasionally mentioned in culinary texts
brânză cheese (used in Italian gourmet contexts for authenticity)
hora traditional circle dance from Romania
moș elderly man or spirit in Romanian folklore
zână fairy or magical woman from Romanian mythology

Persian Loanwords in Italian

Loanwords from Persian into Italian are modest in number but culturally significant. Many entered Italian indirectly via Arabic, Turkish, or French, particularly during the Middle Ages and Renaissance when Silk Road trade, Islamic science, and Oriental luxury goods influenced European culture. Persian contributed terms especially in fields like textiles, jewelry, cuisine, and botany, often linked to exotic or refined items that fascinated Europeans. These words have become well integrated into Italian, sometimes without clear awareness of their Iranian origin.

Examples of Persian Loanwords in Italian

zucchero sugar
scarlatto scarlet (a deep red dye)
gelsomino jasmine flower
tulipano tulip
paradiso paradise or heaven
giarrettiera garter (indirectly from Persian via Arabic and Old French)
caravanserraglio inn for caravans, often used metaphorically today
tappeto carpet or rug
divano sofa or couch
damasco damask fabric, originally woven in Damascus with Persian influence
babbuccia slipper
magia magic
bazaar marketplace (especially used for Eastern-style markets)
narciso narcissus flower
tigre tiger
spinacio spinach
pesca peach
arancio orange tree or fruit (shared Persian-Arabic origin)
giubba jacket or tunic
scacchi chess
scacco check in chess, from shah (king)
scià shah or Persian king
rubino ruby
zibellino sable (fur-bearing animal)
assassino assassin, from Hashashin (Persian-Islamic sect)

Arabic Loanwords in Italian

Loanwords from Arabic into Italian are numerous and important, especially in areas like science, mathematics, astronomy, agriculture, trade, and everyday life. Many of these words entered Italian during the Middle Ages via Sicily, which was under Arab rule from the 9th to 11th centuries, and through Arabic-speaking scholars whose works were studied in medieval Europe. As a result, Arabic left a deep imprint on the Italian lexicon, often through Latin or Spanish intermediaries.

Examples of Arabic Loanwords in Italian

algebra branch of mathematics involving variables
zero numerical digit representing nothing
alambicco distillation apparatus (alembic)
elisir elixir or magical potion
tazza cup
zucchero sugar
cotone cotton
gelsomino jasmine flower
zafferano saffron spice
sciroppo syrup
tariffa rate or fee schedule
magazzino warehouse or storage room
carciofo artichoke
arancia orange (fruit)
albicocca apricot
limone lemon
spinacio spinach
scirocco hot desert wind from the Sahara
emiro emir, Islamic noble title
imam religious leader in Islam
ghibellino name of a medieval political faction (from Arabic via Sicilian use)
azzurro light blue color
ammiraglio admiral, naval commander
alcova alcove or private space in a room
alchimia alchemy
alcool alcohol
camice shirt or tunic (from qamis)
divano sofa or bench (from diwan)
zenzero ginger
nube cloud (possibly influenced via Arabic nuqab, though debated)
cuscus couscous dish from North Africa
hascisc hashish, cannabis resin

Portuguese Loanwords in Italian

Loanwords from Portuguese into Italian are relatively few but notable, reflecting the influence of Portuguese exploration, maritime trade, and colonial culture. Some words entered Italian directly, especially in contexts such as navigation, exotic goods, and cultural products. Others came through Spanish or French, especially during the Age of Exploration when Portuguese was a dominant global language. These loanwords often relate to foreign places, new foods, or musical styles introduced by the Portuguese.

marmellata jam or marmalade (from Portuguese "marmelada", quince preserve)
albatro albatross, large sea bird
fetish object believed to have magical powers (from Portuguese "feitiço")
mandarino mandarin orange, citrus fruit introduced via Portuguese trade
bambu bamboo, tropical plant
copra dried coconut kernel
caipirinha Brazilian cocktail made with cachaça, lime, and sugar
cachaça Brazilian sugarcane spirit
mulatto person of mixed Black and white ancestry (from "mulato")
verzino a type of red dye (from "berçim", Portuguese name for brazilwood)
carambola starfruit, tropical fruit imported via Portuguese trade
castagna d’India chestnut from India, originally referenced in Portuguese exploration
amba mango pickle or sauce (of Indian-Portuguese origin)
macaco monkey (from Portuguese "macaco")
mango tropical fruit brought from India by the Portuguese
zenzero ginger (influenced by Portuguese "gengibre")

Spanish Loanwords in Italian

Loanwords from Spanish into Italian are numerous, reflecting centuries of close political, cultural, and military interaction—especially during the period when large parts of Italy (Naples, Sicily, Sardinia, Milan) were under Spanish rule from the 16th to 18th centuries. These words entered Italian primarily through everyday contact, literature, and administration, and many have been fully integrated into modern Italian, especially in colloquial speech, military terms, gastronomy, and slang.

chitarra guitar
moschettiere musketeer
manzanilla a type of sherry wine
calle street (used in Venetian dialect and influenced by Spanish "calle")
ventilatore fan
fiesta party (used colloquially in Italian as well)
plaza square or public place (appears in some toponyms and tourist language)
matador bullfighter
patata potato
cacao cocoa
banana banana (shared word in both Spanish and Portuguese origin)
corte court (as in royal court, influenced by Spanish political usage)
duenna older woman acting as chaperone (from "dueña")
gala elegant event or ceremony
pampa plains (especially in references to South America)
granata grenade, from Spanish "granada"
guerriglia guerrilla warfare
corrida bullfight
siesta afternoon nap
tapas small plates or appetizers (used in modern culinary Italian)
machismo strong or aggressive masculine pride
flamenco Spanish music and dance genre

Chinese Loanwords in Italian

Loanwords from Chinese into Italian are relatively limited but increasing, especially in the fields of cuisine, martial arts, philosophy, and traditional medicine. Many Chinese terms entered Italian through English or French intermediaries, particularly during the 20th century as Chinese food, culture, and ideas spread globally. Some terms have become fully naturalized in Italian, while others are still seen as exotic or used in specific cultural contexts.

Examples of Chinese Loanwords in Italian

tofu soybean curd used in cooking
ginseng medicinal root used as a tonic
kumquat small citrus fruit
tao the Way, central concept in Taoism
yin the passive, dark, feminine cosmic force in Chinese philosophy
yang the active, light, masculine cosmic force in Chinese philosophy
kung fu Chinese martial arts
tai chi slow, meditative form of martial arts
feng shui Chinese practice of harmonizing space and energy
mahjong traditional Chinese tile game
wok rounded cooking pan used in stir-frying
soia soy (from Chinese via Portuguese or Japanese)
litchi lychee fruit, used in drinks and desserts
dim sum bite-sized Chinese dishes served with tea
bambù bamboo plant (widely used in food and construction)
tea beverage made from tea leaves (from Hokkien "te")
zen meditative school of Buddhism (from Chinese "chán", though the term entered Italian via Japanese)
szechuan style of spicy Chinese cuisine from Sichuan province
mandarino Mandarin Chinese language or citrus fruit
pagoda tiered temple structure

Korean Loanwords in Italian

Loanwords from Korean into Italian are relatively recent and still quite limited, but they are steadily increasing thanks to the global rise of Korean pop culture, known as the K-Wave or Hallyu. These words are often used in the context of music, fashion, cinema, beauty products, and food, reflecting Italy’s growing fascination with Korean lifestyle trends. Most of these terms have entered Italian via English or direct borrowing, especially among younger generations and fans of Korean culture.

kimchi fermented vegetables, typically spicy cabbage
soju Korean distilled alcoholic drink
taekwondo Korean martial art
hanbok traditional Korean dress
k-pop Korean pop music
k-drama Korean television drama
bulgogi marinated grilled beef
bibimbap mixed rice dish with vegetables, egg, and meat
gochujang spicy red chili paste
hangul Korean writing system
oppa older brother or affectionate term for a male (used in fan culture)
unni older sister or affectionate term among women
aegyo display of cute, childlike behavior
hallyu Korean cultural wave
jjajangmyeon noodles with black bean sauce
samgyeopsal grilled pork belly slices
makgeolli Korean rice wine
banchan small side dishes served with Korean meals
gimbap rice and seaweed roll similar to sushi
taegeukgi the Korean national flag

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