lettino
/letˈti.no/
The Italian word for sunbed is lettino.
lettino refers to a reclining beach chair, also known as a sunlounger.
Meaning: reclining beach chair (noun)
Which one should you use?
While lettino refers to the reclining beach chair, letto refers to a standard bed.
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced /letˈti.no/. It has 3 syllables, with the stress on the 2nd syllable.
Did you know?
- The word lettino is also the standard term for a medical examination table. Depending on the context, you are either about to take a nap in the sun or get a check-up from a doctor.
- In Italy, you will often see lettini arranged in perfect military rows under colorful umbrellas called ombrelloni. These are managed by stabilimenti balneari, which are private beach clubs that rent the gear.
- In Italian, adding the suffix -ino to a noun doesn't just mean 'small', it often implies a sense of endearment or coziness.
Examples in context
- Ho prenotato un lettino per oggi.I booked a sunbed for today.
- Il lettino è molto comodo.The sunbed is very comfortable.
- Dove posso trovare un lettino libero?Where can I find a free sunbed?
Example conversation
At a beach resort, a couple is looking for a place to relax.
- SofiaLorenzo, hai visto se c'è un lettino libero?Lorenzo, did you see if there is a free sunbed?
- LorenzoSì, ce n'è uno vicino all'ombrellone.Yes, there is one near the parasol.
- SofiaOttimo, prendiamo subito quel lettino.Great, let's take that sunbed right away.
- LorenzoVa bene, vado a chiedere al bagnino.Okay, I'll go ask the lifeguard.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry lettino, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
