arricciacapelli
/arˌrit.t͡ʃa.kaˈpel.li/masculine
The English phrase "curling iron" is arricciacapelli in Italian.
The term refers to a heated cylindrical device used for curling hair.
Meaning: a heated cylindrical device for curling the hair (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is a compound of arriccia, meaning curler or to curl and capelli, meaning hair.
Which one should you use?
While arricciacapelli is the standard noun, the phrase ferro arricciacapelli is also commonly used and literally translates to "curling iron".
How does it change in a sentence?
The word arricciacapelli is invariable, which means it does not change its form when referring to multiple curling irons.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 6 syllables, with the stress on the 5th syllable: /arˌrit.tʃa.kaˈpel.li/.
Did you know?
- The word arriccia comes from riccio, which means 'curly' but is also the Italian word for 'hedgehog'.
- The verb arricciare used in the name is the same word used to describe how a person might 'frown' or 'scowl' by wrinkling their brow.
- The word capelli specifically refers to the hair on the head, while the word pelo is used for animal fur or body hair.
Examples in context
- Devo comprare un nuovo arricciacapelli.I need to buy a new curling iron.
- L'arricciacapelli è ancora molto caldo.The curling iron is still very hot.
- Dov'è il mio arricciacapelli?Where is my curling iron?
Example conversation
Chiara is getting ready for a party in the bathroom.
- MatteoChiara, hai visto il mio arricciacapelli?Chiara, have you seen my curling iron?
- ChiaraSì, Matteo, è sopra il lavandino.Yes, Matteo, it is on top of the sink.
- MatteoGrazie, lo stavo cercando dappertutto.Thanks, I was looking for it everywhere.
- ChiaraDi nulla, fai attenzione a non scottarti!You're welcome, be careful not to burn yourself!
Sources
- Wiktionary, “curling iron” translations and entries arricciacapelli, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
