coccola
/ˈkɔk.ko.la/
The English word cuddle is translated into Italian as coccola.
The word coccola refers to an affectionate embrace or the act of lying together snugly. The related verb coccolare can also be used figuratively to mean pampering or spoiling someone, such as a child or a partner.
Meaning: intransitive: embrace, lie together snugly (verb)
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
In Italian, the noun coccola (cuddle) is related to the verb coccolare (to cuddle). To express the act of cuddling or being affectionate, it is very common to use the verbal phrase fare le coccole. If you want to say that two or more people are cuddling each other, use the reflexive form coccolarsi.
How do you pronounce it?
coccola is pronounced /ˈkɔk.ko.la/. It has 3 syllables, with the stress on the 1st syllable.
Did you know?
- The word coccola shares a linguistic root with the Latin word coccum, which referred to a small berry or a grain.
- If an Italian says they are coccolando a piece of equipment or a vintage car, they mean they are maintaining it with obsessive care.
- In Italian, 'coccola' can also refer to a 'treat' or a small luxury, such as a piece of chocolate or a small indulgence.
Examples in context
- Dopo una lunga giornata di lavoro, mi piace coccolare mio figlio leggendo una fiaba.After a long day at work, I like to cuddle my child by reading a fairytale.
Example conversation
Lorenzo and Sofia are relaxing on the couch.
- LorenzoHai voglia di stare un po' qui?Do you want to stay here for a bit?
- SofiaSì, coccola pure me, Sofia!Yes, go ahead and cuddle me, Sofia!
- LorenzoÈ così rilassante stare insieme.It is so relaxing to be together.
- SofiaHai ragione, Lorenzo.You are right, Lorenzo.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry coccola, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries coccola, CC BY-SA 4.0.
