How to Say “Swig” in Italian

By Jamie Norman • Updated September 30, 2026

sorsata

The Italian word for 'swig' (to drink, usually by gulping) is sorsata.

Meaning: to drink (usually by gulping) (verb)

Did you know?

In Italy, if you are drinking a 'swig' of wine, you might be doing so from a fiasco, a traditional flask wrapped in straw to prevent breakage and keep the wine cool.
In Italian, if you want to describe drinking a whole glass in one giant swig, you might use the verb scolarsi, which literally translates to 'to drain'.
The word sorsata shares a root with sorseggiare, a verb used for sipping slowly and elegantly.

Example conversation

Francesco and Martina are hiking on a hot day.

Francesco

Ho davvero sete, Martina.
I'm really thirsty, Martina.
Martina

Prendi una sorsata dalla mia bottiglia.
Take a swig from my bottle.
Francesco

Grazie, ne avevo proprio bisogno.
Thanks, I really needed it.
Martina

Prego, Francesco, bevi pure.
You're welcome, Francesco, go ahead and drink.

Sources

Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry sorsata, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.

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About The Author

Jamie Norman

Ciao! It's Jamie here! I'm an avid Italian linguaphile who loves to share the beauty of this romantic language. From saying 'amenities,' to 'biochemistry,' to even ordering 'vanilla ice cream,' I've got you covered! When not immersing myself in the intricacies of 'la bella lingua,' you'll catch me BBQing and enjoying the good taste in my sea-view. Consider me your friendly guide on this Italian language journey, whether you're just saying 'ciao' or discussing Italian woodland. So join me, say 'yes, of course,' as we explore Italian - formal, informal, and everything in between. A presto!

Jamie NormanHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.

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