radici
The English phrase 'roots' can be translated into Italian as radici.
The term radici refers to ancestors.
Meaning: ancestors (noun)
Which one should you use?
While radici is the standard term, you may encounter origini, which is a more formal way to express 'roots' by emphasizing a specific starting point. Conversely, radichette is an informal diminutive form used to create a more casual tone.
Did you know?
- The word radice is a cognate of the English word 'radish', as both derive from the Latin word for 'root'.
- The term radici also describes the square root in mathematics, known as radice quadrata.
- The expression mettere radici (to take root) is commonly used in Italy to describe someone settling down in a new city or starting a permanent life there.
Examples in context
- Le mie radici sono lì.My roots are there.This sentence is useful for talking about one's personal or family roots using radici.Tatoeba #9918224 by Guybrush88, translation #5757368 by CM
- Carote e rape sono radici commestibili.Carrots and turnips are edible roots.This sentence is useful for describing edible plant parts using radici.Tatoeba #3843376 by Guybrush88, translation #35861 by CM
- La parola 'algebra' ha radici arabe, giusto?The word 'algebra' has Arabic roots, right?This sentence is useful for discussing the etymological roots of a word using radici.Tatoeba #5443266 by Guybrush88, translation #3692586 by mervert1
- Le radici delle piante assorbono acqua e sostanze nutritive dal terreno.The roots of plants absorb water and nutrients from the soil.
- Le nostre origini comuni sono radicate nella storia antica.Our common roots are deeply rooted in ancient history.
- Ho trapiantato le radichette del mio ficus in un vaso più grande.I transplanted the little roots of my ficus into a bigger pot.
- I valori familiari costituiscono le fondamenta della nostra società.Family values form the roots of our society.
- 6 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Matteo and Sofia are discussing their family history.
- MatteoSofia, conosci le tue radici?Sofia, do you know your roots?
- SofiaSì, la mia famiglia viene dalla Sicilia.Yes, my family comes from Sicily.
- MatteoAnch'io voglio scoprire le mie radici.I want to discover my roots too.
- SofiaDovresti chiedere a tuo nonno, Matteo.You should ask your grandfather, Matteo.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry radici, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
