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globo
/ˈɡlo.bo/
globe
Il globo terrestre è rappresentato in questa mappa.
The globe is represented on this map.
formal
A spherical representation of the Earth or another celestial body.
Gli scienziati studiano il globo per comprendere i cambiamenti climatici.
Scientists study the globe to understand climate change.
In Italian, 'globo' can also refer to a soap bubble or a decorative sphere, but the most common meaning is the terrestrial globe.
informal
A soap bubble.
Il bambino soffiava i globi di sapone in giardino.
The child was blowing soap bubbles in the garden.
This meaning is less common in modern usage but still recognized.
Collocations
Pro Tip
Avoid confusion with 'globo' vs. 'sfera'
Use 'globo' for the Earth or celestial bodies (e.g., 'globo terrestre'), and 'sfera' for general spherical objects (e.g., 'sfera di cristallo').
Gold Rule
Context matters
The meaning of 'globo' depends heavily on context. In scientific or geographical contexts, it almost always refers to the Earth or a celestial body. In casual contexts, it may refer to soap bubbles.
Word Origin
From Latin 'globus' (sphere, ball), of uncertain origin but possibly related to Greek 'glóphos' (block, mass).
Usage Notes
In Italian, 'globo' is primarily used to refer to the Earth or celestial bodies, while 'sfera' is more general for any spherical object. The term 'globo' is also used in medical contexts (e.g., 'globo oculare' for eyeball) and in expressions like 'soffiare globi' (to blow bubbles).
Dizionario Italiano-Inglese