verza
/ˈver.d͡za/feminine
The English phrase savoy cabbage is translated into Italian as verza. Wiktionary also lists cavolo verzetto.
Meaning: cultivar of cabbage (noun)
Ways to say it
| Italian | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| verza | /ˈver.d͡za/ | feminine |
| cavolo verzetto | masculine |
In many Italian culinary contexts, the word verza specifically refers to the crinkled-leafed savoy cabbage rather than generic cabbage.
Which one should you use?
While cavolo is the general term for cabbage, verza is the specific term used for the savoy variety.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of verza is verze.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈver.dza/. It has 2 syllables, and the stress is on the 1st syllable.
Did you know?
- If you use the general term cavolo in a casual Italian conversation, you might accidentally produce a mild profanity or an exclamation of frustration, similar to 'crap' in English.
- The word verza shares a hidden root with the English word 'verdant', both tracing back to the Latin word for 'green'.
- In Italy, verza is the star ingredient of a traditional winter soup called minestra di verza, which varies significantly in ingredients between Northern and Southern regions.
Examples in context
- Ho comprato una verza fresca al mercato.I bought a fresh savoy cabbage at the market.
- La verza è ottima nelle zuppe invernali.Savoy cabbage is excellent in winter soups.
- Taglia la verza a strisce sottili.Cut the savoy cabbage into thin strips.
Example conversation
Sofia and Matteo are in the kitchen preparing dinner.
- SofiaMatteo, puoi lavare questa verza?Matteo, can you wash this savoy cabbage?
- MatteoCertamente, la lavo subito.Certainly, I'll wash it right away.
- SofiaGrazie, è molto tenera.Thank you, it is very tender.
- MatteoSì, è perfetta per la nostra ricetta.Yes, it is perfect for our recipe.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “savoy cabbage” translations and entries verza, cavolo verzetto, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries cavolo, verza, CC BY-SA 4.0.
