How to Say “Chow” in Italian

By Floyd Liam • Updated October 5, 2026

pappa

/ˈpap.pa/

The Italian slang word for "chow" is pappa.

pappa is used as a slang term to refer to food, especially snacks.

Meaning: ''(slang)'' food, especially snacks (noun)

What does it mean word for word?

Literally, pappa refers to mushy food or baby food.

How do you pronounce it?

/ˈpap.pa/. The stress is on the first of two syllables.

Did you know?

In Italian, the verb pappare means to eat with great enthusiasm or greediness.
In some Italian regions, pappa specifically refers to a traditional dish of stale bread boiled in broth and mixed with cheese.
Using pappa can sound slightly childish or patronizing if used in a formal setting.

Example conversation

Matteo and Martina are hanging out at home.

Matteo

Ho fame, c'è della pappa?
I'm hungry, is there any food?
Martina

Sì, guarda in cucina.
Yes, look in the kitchen.
Matteo

Non vedo niente di buono.
I don't see anything good.
Martina

Allora usciamo a mangiare.
Then let's go out to eat.

Sources

Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry pappa, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.

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About The Author

Floyd Liam

Hello, I'm Floyd! I run a blog dedicated to teaching all the beautiful expressions & phrases in Italian, from how to say "I love you" to "thank you, my love". I adore helping folks communicate better in another language. In my free time, I hike the trails, trying to mimic the sounds of wildlife—yeah, even the grey squirrel! Pizza, video games, and scented candles always mark the ends of my days. I believe learning languages can be fun—so study with me and scopriamo insieme—"let's discover together"!

Floyd LiamHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.

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