neonati
The Italian word for babies is neonati.
neonati specifically refers to newborns. While you can use the more general term bambini to refer to children in a broad sense, including babies, neonati is the precise term for those who have been born recently. In very affectionate contexts, you might even hear the word cuccioli, which literally means little puppies but is used to refer to babies with fondness.
Which one should you use?
The term neonati refers specifically to newborns, whereas bambini is used for a much broader range of young children, such as toddlers and kids.
How does it change in a sentence?
The feminine plural form of this word is neonate.
Did you know?
- The word bimbo in Italian is purely innocent and refers to a small child, whereas in American English 'bimbo' became a derogatory term for a woman.
- It is common in Italy to refer to a baby as un tesoro meaning 'a treasure' rather than using a word for child during affectionate conversation.
- In many Italian households, you might hear the word lattante used for babies. This refers specifically to an infant who is still breastfeeding or on a milk-based diet.
Examples in context
- Ho visto dei bambini adorabili nel parco oggi!I saw some adorable babies in the park today!
- I nostri bimbi hanno imparato a camminare da soli.Our babies have learned to walk by themselves.
- I piccini sono così teneri quando ridono!The little ones are so adorable when they laugh!
- I neonati dormono nel loro lettino.The babies are sleeping in their crib.
- Ci sono molti neonati in questo reparto.There are many babies in this ward.
- I neonati hanno bisogno di cure costanti.Babies need constant care.
Example conversation
Lorenzo and Martina are visiting a hospital ward.
- LorenzoGuarda quanti neonati ci sono!Look how many babies there are!
- MartinaSì, sono tutti così piccoli.Yes, they are all so small.
- LorenzoI neonati sono davvero adorabili.Newborn babies are truly adorable.
- MartinaHai ragione, Lorenzo.You are right, Lorenzo.
