ricarica
/riˈka.ri.ka/
The English phrase "refill" translates to the Italian ricarica.
Meaning: to fill up again (verb)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is composed of the prefix ri- (again) and carica (charge/load).
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun ricarica is derived from the infinitive verb ricaricare, which means "to refill" or "to recharge."
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 4 syllables, with the stress on the second syllable: /riˈka.ri.ka/.
Did you know?
- In Italy, you will rarely hear ricarica used for a drink refill. Instead, people use un altro, meaning 'another one', as free refills are not a standard custom in Italian cafes.
- The word carica can also mean 'rank' or 'office' in certain historical or military contexts, which creates a linguistic link between 'loading' and 'status'.
- The word ricarica is also the standard term used for a 'top-up' when adding credit to a prepaid mobile phone SIM card.
Examples in context
- Potrebbe riempirlo di nuovo, per cortesia?Could you refill it again, please?
- Mi rifai il bicchiere d'acqua, per favore?Can you refill the glass of water, please?
- Posso avere un'altra tazza di tè, per cortesia?Can I have another cup of tea, please?
- Devo fare una ricarica sulla mia scheda telefonica.I need to do a refill on my phone card.
Example conversation
Chiara and Matteo are at a cafe.
- ChiaraMatteo, ricarica il tuo caffè?Matteo, are you refilling your coffee?
- MatteoSì, ne ho ancora bisogno.Yes, I still need some.
- ChiaraAllora vai pure al bancone.Then go ahead to the counter.
- MatteoVa bene, vado subito.All right, I'm going now.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry ricarica, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
