papà
everyday
The everyday Italian word for "dad" is papà, with the stress on the last syllable. In Tuscany and central Italy many people say babbo. It is also called Papi.
Meaning: dad, affectionately (noun)
Ways to say it
| Italian | Note |
|---|---|
| papà | everyday |
| Papi | casual |
| Babbo | Tuscany, central Italy |
The affectionate papi and paparino are used more by children and in teasing. Papà alone is the safe choice.
Is it said differently in some regions?
Babbo is typical of Tuscany and parts of central Italy, while papà is understood everywhere.
How do you pronounce it?
Papà sounds like "pah-PAH" with the weight on the second part.
Did you know?
- In Italian Babbo Natale is Santa Claus, which uses the same word as the Tuscan babbo.
Examples in context
- Ciao papà, come stai?Hi dad, how are you?
- Il mio babbo fa il falegname.My dad is a carpenter.
- Papà, mi accompagni?Dad, will you take me?
Example conversation
Sofia asks her father Roberto for a ride at home in Florence.
- SofiaBabbo, mi porti a scuola?Dad, will you take me to school?
- RobertoCerto, prendi lo zaino.Sure, get your backpack.
- SofiaGrazie, babbo!Thanks, dad!
