papa
/ˈpa.pa/masculine
The English phrase 'pope' is translated into Italian as papa. Wiktionary also lists pontefice.
Meaning: head of the Roman Catholic Church (noun)
Ways to say it
| Italian | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| papa | /ˈpa.pa/ | masculine |
| pontefice | /ponˈte.fi.t͡ʃe/ /ponˈtɛ.fi.t͡ʃe/ |
masculine |
The term refers to the head of the Roman Catholic Church.
Which one should you use?
While papa is the standard term, pontefice is a more formal and elevated term, often used in journalistic or ecclesiastical contexts, equivalent to the English 'pontiff'.
How does it change in a sentence?
Both papa and pontefice are masculine nouns.
How do you pronounce it?
papa is pronounced /ˈpa.pa/. It has two syllables, with the stress on the first syllable.
Did you know?
- The Italian word papa is identical to the word for 'dad' or 'daddy', written as papà with an accent on the final syllable. The distinction between the 'pope' and a 'dad' in spoken Italian relies entirely on the stress of the final vowel.
- The Greek root of papa, πάππας, was originally a term of endearment used by children. This linguistic journey from a 'baby word' to a title for the supreme leader of the Church is quite a leap.
- In Italian, the phrase habemus papam is still used to announce a new pope, but it is in Latin rather than Italian.
Examples in context
- Il Papa è morto.The Pope died.This sentence is useful for stating that the Papa has died.Tatoeba #13213867 by Guybrush88, translation #13167598 by rul
- Tom ama il Papa.Tom loves the Pope.This sentence is useful for expressing affection for the Papa.Tatoeba #13213869 by Guybrush88, translation #12051143 by shekitten
- Il Papa è deceduto.The Pope has passed away.This sentence is useful for stating that the Papa has passed away using a more formal verb.Tatoeba #13213887 by Guybrush88, translation #13168000 by rul
- Sua Santità il Papa è un leader carismatico.His Holiness the Pope is a charismatic leader.
- Il Papa si è assicurato di diffondere il messaggio di pace nel suo discorso.The Pope made sure to spread the message of peace in his speech.
- Hai sentito le ultime notizie sul Papa?Have you heard the latest news about the Pope?
- 95 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Lorenzo and Chiara are discussing a trip to Rome.
- LorenzoPossiamo vedere il papa a Roma?Can we see the pope in Rome?
- ChiaraSì, se andiamo in Piazza San Pietro.Yes, if we go to St. Peter's Square.
- LorenzoSpero che il papa faccia un discorso.I hope the pope gives a speech.
- ChiaraSarebbe un'esperienza bellissima, Lorenzo.That would be a beautiful experience, Lorenzo.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “pope” translations and entries papa, pontefice, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries papa, pontefice, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
