liscio
/ˈliʃ.ʃo/
The English word smooth is translated into Italian as liscio.
The word is used to describe surfaces that lack friction or are not rough.
Meaning: lacking friction, not rough (adj)
Which one should you use?
While liscio describes the texture of a surface, do not confuse it with morbido, which is used to describe something that is smooth in the sense of being soft to the touch.
How does it change in a sentence?
The adjective must agree in gender and number with the noun it modifies. Use liscia for feminine singular nouns, lisci for masculine plural nouns and lisce for feminine plural nouns.
How do you pronounce it?
The word consists of 2 syllables, with the stress on the first syllable. The IPA pronunciation is /ˈliʃ.ʃo/.
Did you know?
- In an Italian café, if you order a caffè liscio, you are asking for a plain black espresso without milk or sugar.
- In the context of Italian music, the term liscio refers to a popular genre of ballroom dance music, such as the polka and waltz, rather than a texture.
- If an Italian describes a person as liscio, they might be referring to someone who is completely hairless or clean-shaven.
Examples in context
- Mi piace il petto liscio.I like a smooth chest.This sentence uses liscio to describe a body part.Tatoeba #11591298 by Nuel, translation #11591297 by Nuel
- La pietra è liscia come il vetro.The stone is as smooth as glass.
- Il tavolo di legno è stato levigato con attenzione.The wooden table has been carefully smoothed.
- Il tavolo è molto liscio.The table is very smooth.
Example conversation
Martina and Matteo are looking at a new marble countertop in a kitchen.
- MartinaGuarda come è liscio questo marmo!Look how smooth this marble is!
- MatteoSì, è davvero un materiale liscio.Yes, it is truly a smooth material.
- MartinaMatteo, toccalo con mano.Matteo, touch it with your hand.
- MatteoHai ragione, è perfetto.You are right, it is perfect.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “smooth” translations and entries liscio, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
