iodio
/ˈjɔ.djo/masculine
Iodine in Italian is iodio.
iodio refers to the chemical element. You may encounter the expression tintura di iodio when referring to iodine tincture. In a colloquial context, people often use the term Betadine to refer to iodine.
Meaning: element (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 2 syllables, with the stress on the first syllable. The pronunciation is /ˈjɔ.djo/.
Did you know?
- The word iodio shares a root with the Greek word ioeides, meaning 'violet-colored', referring to the vapor the element produces.
- In Italy, the brand name Betadine is so dominant that people use it as a generic term for any iodine-based antiseptic, similar to how some English speakers use 'Kleenex' for tissues.
- Italian pharmacy signage often uses the symbol of the 'green cross', where you would go to purchase tintura di iodio without a prescription.
Examples in context
- Nel laboratorio di chimica, abbiamo studiato le proprietà dell' iodio.In the chemistry laboratory, we studied the properties of iodine.
- L'odore dello iodio è molto particolare.The smell of iodine is very particular.
- Hai bisogno di iodio nella tua dieta?Do you need iodine in your diet?
Example conversation
A student and a teacher are discussing a chemistry experiment in a lab.
- SofiaProfessore, cosa succede se aggiungo lo iodio?Professor, what happens if I add iodine?
- FrancescoIl colore della soluzione cambierà drasticamente.The color of the solution will change drastically.
- SofiaÈ un elemento molto reattivo, vero?It is a very reactive element, right?
- FrancescoSì, lo iodio è molto attivo in queste condizioni.Yes, iodine is very active in these conditions.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “iodine” translations and entries iodio, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
