degustazione
Lemma: degustazione
Translation: tasting; wine tasting; food tasting; sampling (noun)
Etymology: From Latin 'degustatio' (a tasting), derived from 'degustare' (to taste), which combines 'de' (thoroughly) and 'gustare' (to taste). The English word 'gustation' (the act of tasting) shares the same Latin root 'gustare'. The Italian term has maintained its specific connection to the formal, often professional evaluation of food and drink, especially wine.
Example Usage
Abbiamo partecipato a una degustazione di vini toscani.
We participated in a Tuscan wine tasting.
Il ristorante offre un menu degustazione di cinque portate.
The restaurant offers a five-course tasting menu.
La degustazione dell'olio d'oliva richiede esperienza.
Olive oil tasting requires experience.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'gust' in 'degustazione' as related to 'gusto' (taste) - it's about thoroughly tasting something.
- Connect it to 'disgust' in English (opposite meaning but similar sound) - a degustazione is meant to prevent disgust by carefully tasting first.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
In Italian culture, 'degustazione' is strongly associated with wine culture and gastronomy. Wine tastings (degustazioni di vino) are important cultural events in Italy's wine regions. Many restaurants and producers offer 'menu degustazione' (tasting menus) to showcase their specialties. The term reflects Italy's deep appreciation for food and wine as cultural experiences rather than mere consumption.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'degustazione' refers to the act of tasting food or drink, 'digestione' means 'digestion' - the process of breaking down food in the body after eating.
Confused word:
Dopo un pasto pesante, la digestione può essere lenta.
After a heavy meal, digestion can be slow.
Notes: The words share similar sounds and both relate to food, but represent different stages of the eating process.
Mnemonic: 'Degustazione' starts with 'de' like 'delicious' - it's about tasting delicious things. 'Digestione' starts like 'digest' - what happens after you eat.