rosario
/roˈza.rjo/masculine
The English phrase "rosary" is rosario in Italian.
The word rosario is a masculine noun used to refer to the Catholic prayer beads. When describing the action of praying the rosary, Italian speakers typically use the phrase recitare il rosario (to recite the rosary) instead of using the verb for "to pray" (pregare).
Meaning: Catholic prayer beads (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The term rosario is derived from the Latin word rosarium, which means a garland or a crown of roses.
How does it change in a sentence?
The singular masculine form is rosario, and the plural form is rosari.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has three syllables, with the stress on the second syllable: /roˈza.rjo/.
Did you know?
- The individual beads of a rosario are called grani, which literally translates to 'grains' or 'seeds'.
- Italian speakers use rosario metaphorically to describe a tedious list of complaints or a long sequence of events.
- In some Italian dialects, the word rosario can be used to describe a string of beads or pearls on a piece of jewelry, regardless of its religious purpose.
Examples in context
- Hai il rosario con te?Do you have the rosary with you?
- Sì, ho il mio rosario sempre con me.Yes, I always have my rosary with me.
- Durante la cerimonia celebreremo il Santo Rosario.During the ceremony, we will celebrate the Holy Rosary.
- Il mio rosario è sul comodino.My rosary is on the nightstand.
- Hai un rosario con te?Do you have a rosary with you?
- Lei porta sempre il suo rosario.She always carries her rosary.
Example conversation
Sofia and Francesco are talking in a quiet church.
- SofiaFrancesco, dove hai messo il rosario?Francesco, where did you put the rosary?
- FrancescoL'ho lasciato nella borsa, Sofia.I left it in the bag, Sofia.
- SofiaVa bene, lo prendo io.Alright, I'll get it.
- FrancescoGrazie mille, sei molto gentile.Thank you very much, you are very kind.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “rosary” translations and entries rosario, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
