FastItalian LearningSign in
Advanced Vocabulary and Word Formation — Lessico Avanzato·Compound Words
💡

Rule reminder

Italian compound words combine two elements to form a new word. Common patterns: verb + noun (portafoglio = porta + foglio = wallet; apribottiglie = apri + bottiglie = bottle opener), noun + noun (pescespada = pesce + spada = swordfish), adjective + noun (altopiano = alto + piano = plateau). The meaning is often transparent once you recognise the parts.

Compound Words1 / 10

What does 'portafoglio' literally mean and what does it actually refer to?

More in this section

📝 Take the Section 5 Mini-Exam← Back to Advanced Vocabulary and Word Formation — Lessico Avanzato