topolino
/to.poˈli.no/
The English phrase "little mouse" translates to topolino in Italian, referring specifically to the Disney character Mickey Mouse.
topolino is used as the name for the famous Disney cartoon character Mickey Mouse.
What does it mean word for word?
The word is formed by adding the diminutive suffix -ino to a root, which is used to indicate smallness or endearment.
How does it change in a sentence?
The suffix -ino is a diminutive suffix used to indicate smallness or endearment.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 4 syllables, with the stress on the 3rd syllable: /to.poˈli.no/.
Did you know?
- The phrase fare il topolino can be used idiomatically to describe someone acting shy or timid.
- In Italy, the word Topolino refers not only to the character but also to the weekly comic magazine that has been published since 1932.
- In some Italian dialects, adding -ino creates a word that can be ironically used to describe something actually very large.
Examples in context
- Il mio primo amico è Topolino.My first friend is Mickey Mouse.
Example conversation
Two friends are talking about a gift for a child.
- MartinaLorenzo, hai visto questo giocattolo?Lorenzo, have you seen this toy?
- LorenzoSì, è un peluche di Topolino.Yes, it is a Mickey Mouse plushie.
- MartinaSpero che piaccia alla piccola Martina.I hope little Martina likes it.
- LorenzoSì, adoro Topolino!Yes, I love Mickey Mouse!
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry topolino, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
