chef
/ˈʃɛf/
The Italian word for chef is chef. Wiktionary also lists capocuoco.
Meaning: head cook of an establishment such as a restaurant (noun)
Ways to say it
| Italian | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| chef | /ˈʃɛf/ | |
| capocuoco | masculine |
In Italian, chef refers to the head cook of an establishment, such as a restaurant. The term is widely understood and respected, particularly within professional culinary circles.
Which one should you use?
While chef is the common term used in modern professional settings, capocuoco is the traditional Italian way to say head cook.
How does it change in a sentence?
chef is an invariable loanword, which means it does not change its spelling to become plural. For example, the plural of chef is gli chef. When referring to a female chef, the noun remains unchanged but the article becomes la (e.g., la chef).
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈʃɛf/
Did you know?
- The word chef is a linguistic doublet of the Italian word capo, as both ultimately derive from the Latin word caput meaning 'head'.
- While chef is the professional title, the traditional role of managing a household's food was historically held by the massaia.
- In a professional Italian kitchen, calling someone a cuoco instead of a chef can subtly imply they have less skill or lack leadership authority.
Examples in context
- Non è una chef?Aren't you a chef?This sentence is useful for asking if someone is a chef.Tatoeba #4390540 by Guybrush88, translation #2648571 by CK
- Io chiamerò lo chef.I'll call the chef.This sentence is useful for saying you will call the chef.Tatoeba #4390531 by Guybrush88, translation #1912010 by Spamster
- Tom è un famoso chef.Tom is a famous chef.This sentence is useful for describing someone as a famous chef.Tatoeba #4057233 by Guybrush88, translation #3068211 by Hybrid
- 79 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Sofia and Francesco are discussing a new restaurant opening.
- FrancescoSai chi è lo chef del nuovo ristorante?Do you know who the chef of the new restaurant is?
- SofiaSì, è uno chef stellato.Yes, he is a Michelin-starred chef.
- FrancescoAllora Sofia, dobbiamo prenotare subito.Then Sofia, we must book immediately.
- SofiaHai ragione, Francesco, andiamo!You're right, Francesco, let's go!
Sources
- Wiktionary, “chef” translations and entries chef, capocuoco, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries capocuoco, chef, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
