cucinu
The Sicilian word for cousin is cucinu.
The word refers to the child of a person’s parent’s brother or sister.
Meaning: child of a person’s parent’s brother or sister (noun)
Which one should you use?
While cucinu is the standard term, cuginieddu is a specific informal variant.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In certain regions of Sicily, the informal term cuginieddu is used.
Did you know?
- The term cucinu is sometimes used in a sarcastic way to address a stranger who is trying to act too familiar or 'at home' in a place where they aren't invited.
- In Sicilian, the diminutive form cuginieddu is often used as a term of endearment for someone you are not actually related to, such as a close friend.
- Because of the 'compadrazgo' system, someone who is technically a cucinu might be addressed by a title of spiritual kinship, like 'godbrother', depending on the family's religious ties.
Examples in context
- Lu cucinu di Rosa è simpaticu.Rosa's cousin is nice.
Example conversation
Antonio and Rosa are looking at an old family photo.
- AntonioChiù è chistu picciriddu?Who is this little boy?
- RosaChiddu è u tò cucinu.That is your cousin.
- AntonioNon u ricuordu.I don't remember him.
- RosaÈ u cucinu di tò matri.He is your mother's cousin.
