nastro adesivo
/ˈnas.tro a.deˈzi.vo/word by wordmasculine
The English phrase "duct tape" is nastro adesivo in Italian.
Nastro adesivo is a multipurpose waterproof tape.
Meaning: multipurpose waterproof tape (noun)
Which one should you use?
Nastro adesivo is a generic term for any adhesive tape. In contrast, if you are specifically referring to the heavy-duty, fabric-reinforced kind known as duct tape, you might use the colloquial term nastro americano.
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun nastro is masculine, so any accompanying adjectives must also be in the masculine form, such as un nastro adesivo.
How do you pronounce it?
It has five syllables, and the first syllable is stressed.
Did you know?
- While nastro adesivo is the formal term, Italians often use the word scotch to refer specifically to clear office tape, treating the brand name as a generic noun.
- In a casual context, referring to a repair as nastro americano can be a humorous way to describe a temporary or unprofessional 'quick-fix'.
- The word nastro originates from the Old High German word nestila, which meant a belt, strap or thong.
Examples in context
- Il mio rottame è tenuto insieme dal nastro adesivo e dalla speranza.My clunker is held together by duct tape and hope.This sentence uses nastro adesivo to describe how an old vehicle is held together.Tatoeba #13647616 by Nuel, translation #13647615 by Nuel
Example conversation
Francesco and Sofia are fixing a leaking pipe in the kitchen.
- FrancescoSofia, mi passi il nastro adesivo?Sofia, can you pass me the duct tape?
- SofiaCerto, eccolo qui.Sure, here it is.
- FrancescoGrazie, questo nastro adesivo è molto resistente.Thanks, this duct tape is very strong.
- SofiaSpero che tenga l'acqua fuori.I hope it keeps the water out.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “duct tape” translations and entries nastro adesivo, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (nastro, adesivo) and can differ in connected speech.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries nastro, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
