uncinetto
/un.t͡ʃiˈnet.to/
The English verb 'to crochet' is translated into Italian as uncinetto.
In Italian, uncinetto is the most commonly used term for the craft of crochet. To describe the actual action of crocheting, speakers typically use the phrase lavorare all'uncinetto, which literally means 'to work at the little hook'.
Meaning: to make needlework using a hooked needle (verb)
How does it change in a sentence?
When you are referring to the craft itself or the tool used, the noun uncinetto is used with a definite article. This article is often elided to l'uncinetto because it precedes a vowel.
How do you pronounce it?
/un.tʃiˈnet.to/, with the stress on the third of four syllables.
Did you know?
- In Italy, uncinetto is frequently used to create centrini, which are traditional decorative lace doilies placed on tables and furniture.
- While uncinetto refers to the hook, the Italian word for knitting needles is ferri, which means 'irons'.
- Italian crochet patterns often use the term maglia, which means 'stitch' but also translates to 'sweater' or 'jersey'.
Examples in context
- Voglio imparare a lavorare all'uncinetto.I want to learn how to crochet.This sentence shows how to express the desire to learn the craft using uncinetto.Tatoeba #8425243 by Guybrush88, translation #8123446 by CK
- Noi due insieme a letto? Al massimo possiamo fare l'uncinetto!The two of us together in bed? The most we can do is crochet!This sentence uses uncinetto in a humorous context.Tatoeba #13900737 by Nuel, translation #13900736 by Nuel
- Come tutti gli argomenti, per capire l'uncinetto bisogna partire dalle basi.Like all subjects, understanding crochet requires starting with the basics.This sentence uses uncinetto to explain that one must start with the basics to understand the subject.Tatoeba #11754421 by Nuel, translation #11754403 by Nuel
- Il mio passatempo preferito è l'uncinetto.My favorite hobby is crochet.
- Oggi ho iniziato un nuovo lavoro a uncinetto.Today I started a new crochet project.
- Mia nonna sa fare un bellissimo filetto.My grandmother knows how to make beautiful crochet lace.
Example conversation
Francesco is asking Martina about her hobby.
- FrancescoCosa stai facendo, Martina?What are you doing, Martina?
- MartinaFaccio un cappello all'uncinetto.I am crocheting a hat.
- FrancescoÈ difficile lavorare all'uncinetto?Is it difficult to crochet?
- MartinaNo, è molto rilassante!No, it is very relaxing!
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry uncinetto, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
