sorriso
Il suo sorriso era contagioso.
Her smile was contagious.
The expression on someone's face when they are happy or amused, often involving a slight raising of the corners of the mouth.
Un sorriso sincero può aprire molte porte.
A sincere smile can open many doors.
Il bambino ha fatto un sorriso quando ha visto il gelato.
The child smiled when he saw the ice cream.
Used literally to describe facial expressions. Can also convey warmth, friendliness, or approval.
Collocations
Synonyms
Pro Tip
Gender and Number
'Sorriso' is masculine. The plural is 'sorrisi'.
Gold Rule
Literal vs. Figurative
Always use 'sorriso' for the facial expression. For the act of smiling (verb), use 'sorridere'.
Word Origin
From Latin *subrisus*, past participle of *subridere* (to smile slightly), from *sub-* (under) + *ridere* (to laugh).
Usage Notes
Common in both formal and informal contexts. Often used in idiomatic expressions like 'avere un sorriso contagioso' (to have an infectious smile) or 'perdere il sorriso' (to lose one's smile, i.e., to become sad).