orsetto
/orˈset.to/
The English phrase "teddy" can be translated into Italian as orsetto.
The term refers to a soft toy shaped like a bear.
What does it mean word for word?
The word is a diminutive of orso (bear), combining the root with the suffix -etto (little) to mean "little bear".
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural of orsetto is orsetti. While orsetto is the standard masculine form, you can use the feminine form orsetta if the toy is personified or referred to as female.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 3 syllables, with the stress on the 2nd syllable: /orˈset.to/.
Did you know?
- In Italy, orsetto is often used as a term of endearment for a partner or a child, similar to how English speakers use 'honey' or 'sweetie'.
- The word orso comes from the Latin ursus, which is also the root for the English word 'ursa' used in astronomy for the constellations Ursa Major and Ursa Minor.
- While orsetto is the standard term, you may see peluche used in Italy to describe any plush toy, regardless of whether it is a bear or another animal.
Examples in context
- Ho comprato un orsetto per il mio bambino.I bought a teddy bear for my baby.
- Il tuo orsetto è molto morbido.Your teddy bear is very soft.
- Dove hai nascosto il piccolo orsetto?Where did you hide the little teddy bear?
Example conversation
Martina and Francesco are looking for a gift for a child.
- MartinaFrancesco, quale orsetto preferisci?Francesco, which teddy bear do you prefer?
- FrancescoPreferisco quello marrone con il fiocco.I prefer the brown one with the ribbon.
- MartinaÈ un orsetto davvero carino.It is a really cute teddy bear.
- FrancescoSì, lo prenderò per il regalo.Yes, I will get it for the gift.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry orsetto, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
