Top 59 Slang For Sicilian – Meaning & Usage

Sicilian, a rich and vibrant language spoken by the people of Sicily, has its own unique slang that adds an extra layer of flavor to their conversations. From colorful expressions to playful phrases, this listicle is here to introduce you to the top Sicilian slang words that will make you feel like a true local. Whether you’re planning a trip to Sicily or simply want to expand your linguistic horizons, join us as we explore the fascinating world of Sicilian slang and immerse ourselves in its cultural richness.

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1. Compa’

This is a slang term used to refer to a close friend or companion. It is derived from the Sicilian word “compagno,” which means companion.

For example, “Hey compa’, let’s go grab a coffee together.”
In a conversation about plans for the weekend, someone might say, “I’m going to the beach with my compa’.”
A person might introduce their friend by saying, “This is my compa’, we’ve known each other since childhood.”

6. Amuni’

This is a slang phrase commonly used in Sicilian to express the idea of “let’s go” or “let’s get moving”. It is often used to encourage someone to take action or to hurry up.

For example, if a group of friends is getting ready to leave for a party, one might say, “Amuni’, we don’t want to be late!”
In a sports context, a coach might say, “Amuni’, give it your all on the field!”
Someone might use this phrase to motivate themselves, saying, “Amuni’, I can do this!”

7. Peri Peri

This is a slang phrase used in Sicilian to mean “hurry up” or “move quickly”. It is often used to encourage someone to speed up their actions or to be more efficient.

For instance, if a parent is trying to get their child ready for school, they might say, “Peri Peri, we don’t want to be late!”
In a work setting, a boss might say, “Peri Peri, we have a deadline to meet!”
A friend might use this phrase playfully, saying, “Peri Peri, we don’t have all day!”

8. Meen kya

This is a slang phrase used in Sicilian to ask someone “What do you mean?” or “What are you trying to say?”. It is often used to seek clarification or to express confusion.

For example, if someone tells a joke and the listener doesn’t understand, they might respond with, “Meen kya?”
In a conversation where someone is being vague, another person might ask, “Meen kya? Can you be more specific?”
A person might use this phrase in a playful manner, saying, “Meen kya? Are you trying to confuse me?”

9. MEEshka

This is a slang term used in Sicilian to describe something or someone as “crazy” or “wild”. It is often used to express surprise or disbelief.

For instance, if someone tells a shocking story, another person might respond with, “MEEshka, that’s unbelievable!”
In a conversation about a daring adventure, someone might say, “He did what? MEEshka, that’s insane!”
A friend might use this term affectionately, saying, “You’re MEEshka for trying that!”

10. Peach uh reedu

This is a slang phrase used in Sicilian to mean “to be in trouble” or “to be in a difficult situation”. It is often used to describe a challenging or problematic scenario.

For example, if someone is caught breaking a rule, they might say, “Peach uh reedu, I didn’t mean to do it!”
In a discussion about a difficult task, someone might say, “I’m in Peach uh reedu trying to finish this project on time.”
A person might use this phrase humorously, saying, “If I don’t finish this report in time, I’ll be in Peach uh reedu with my boss!”

11. Ah moo tom

This phrase is used when someone doesn’t know the answer to a question or is unsure about something. It is often used in a casual or dismissive manner.

For example, if someone asks, “What’s the capital of Sicily?”, a person might respond, “Ah moo tom, sorry.”
In a conversation about a specific topic, someone might say, “I’m not sure about that, ah moo tom.”
A person might use this phrase to brush off a question they don’t want to answer, saying, “Ah moo tom, it’s not important anyway.”

12. Skah-shaddah

This phrase is used to tell someone to be quiet or stop talking. It can be used in a playful or serious manner, depending on the context.

For instance, if someone is being loud or annoying, another person might say, “Skah-shaddah, please.”
In a joking conversation, someone might say, “Skah-shaddah, you’re talking too much.”
A person might use this phrase to express frustration or annoyance, saying, “Skah-shaddah, I can’t concentrate with all the noise.”

13. Fah-Napoli

This phrase is used to express surprise, disbelief, or frustration. It is similar to the English phrase “What the hell” and is often used in informal or casual conversations.

For example, if someone tells a shocking story, another person might respond, “Fah-Napoli, that’s crazy!”
In a frustrating situation, someone might exclaim, “Fah-Napoli, why does this always happen?”
A person might use this phrase to express disbelief, saying, “Fah-Napoli, I can’t believe what I just heard.”

14. Mah keh ronee

This phrase is used to express surprise, awe, or admiration. It is similar to the English phrase “My goodness” and is often used in a positive or enthusiastic manner.

For instance, if someone sees something impressive or beautiful, they might say, “Mah keh ronee, that’s amazing!”
In a conversation about a talented person, someone might say, “Mah keh ronee, they’re incredibly skilled.”
A person might use this phrase to express admiration, saying, “Mah keh ronee, I wish I could do that.”

15. Stew-nahda

This word is used to describe something or someone as crazy or insane. It can be used in a lighthearted or serious manner, depending on the context.

For example, if someone tells a wild story, another person might say, “That’s stew-nahda!”
In a conversation about a daring stunt, someone might say, “That’s absolutely stew-nahda, I would never do that.”
A person might use this word to describe a chaotic situation, saying, “It was stew-nahda, there was so much going on.”

16. Mahnah gia

This phrase is a greeting used to ask someone how they are or what they are up to. It is similar to saying “What’s up?” in English.

For example, two friends might meet on the street and one would say, “Mahnah gia?” as a way to ask how the other is doing.
In a casual conversation, someone might ask, “Mahnah gia? Anything interesting happening in your life?”
A person might use this phrase to start a phone call by saying, “Mahnah gia? Just calling to see how you’re doing.”

17. Troy yuh

This phrase is used to express certainty or assurance. It is similar to saying “Trust me” in English.

For instance, if someone is trying to convince another person to try a new restaurant, they might say, “Troy yuh, the food there is amazing.”
In a discussion about a controversial topic, someone might say, “Troy yuh, I’ve done extensive research on this and my conclusions are based on solid evidence.”
A person might use this phrase when giving advice by saying, “Troy yuh, I’ve been in a similar situation before and I know what I’m talking about.”

18. Tah leh

This phrase is used to suggest or invite someone to go somewhere or do something together. It is similar to saying “Let’s go” in English.

For example, if a group of friends is planning to go to a party, one person might say, “Tah leh, guys! The party starts in an hour.”
In a conversation about weekend plans, someone might suggest, “Tah leh to the beach tomorrow. The weather is going to be perfect.”
A person might use this phrase to invite a friend to a concert by saying, “Tah leh to the concert tonight. It’s going to be an amazing show.”

19. Tah leh qualeh

This phrase is a variation of “Tah leh” and is used to specifically suggest or invite someone to go somewhere or do something together. It is similar to saying “Let’s go together” in English.

For instance, if a friend is planning to go shopping, they might say, “Tah leh qualeh? We can help each other pick out new clothes.”
In a conversation about attending a sports event, someone might suggest, “Tah leh qualeh to the game. It’ll be more fun to go together.”
A person might use this phrase to invite a colleague to a work-related event by saying, “Tah leh qualeh to the conference. We can network and learn together.”

20. Sis sconda

This phrase is used to ask someone to wait for a short period of time. It is similar to saying “Just a second” in English.

For example, if someone asks for directions on the street, a person might respond, “Sis sconda, let me check the map.”
In a conversation about sharing information, someone might say, “Sis sconda, I’ll find the document and email it to you.”
A person might use this phrase when answering a phone call by saying, “Sis sconda, I need to finish this task and then I’ll be able to talk.”

21. Lassa leeduh

This phrase is used to tell someone to let something go or not worry about it. It is a colloquial way of saying “let it be” or “forget about it”.

For example, if someone is stressing about a small mistake, you might say, “Lassa leeduh, it’s not a big deal.”
In a conversation about past disagreements, someone might say, “We should lassa leeduh and move on.”
If someone is holding onto a grudge, you could advise them, “You need to lassa leeduh and forgive.”

22. Ah postuh

This phrase is used to express exhaustion or fatigue. It is a colloquial way of saying “I am tired” in Sicilian dialect.

For instance, if someone asks how you’re feeling after a long day, you might respond, “Ah postuh, I need some rest.”
In a conversation about a busy schedule, you could say, “I’ve been working non-stop, ah postuh.”
If someone suggests going out late at night, you might decline and say, “I can’t, ah postuh.”

23. Skooch ah mend

This phrase is used to politely ask someone to move aside or make room. It is a colloquial way of saying “move aside” in Sicilian dialect.

For example, if someone is blocking your path, you might say, “Skooch ah mend, please.”
In a crowded space, you could ask someone to skooch ah mend so you can pass through.
If someone is standing in front of something you need to access, you might politely say, “Excuse me, can you skooch ah mend?”

24. Paisan

This term is used to refer to a friend or companion. It is a colloquial way of saying “friend” in Sicilian dialect.

For instance, if you greet someone warmly, you might say, “Hey paisan, long time no see!”
In a conversation about trust, you could say, “I only share personal information with my closest paisans.”
If someone helps you out in a difficult situation, you might express gratitude by saying, “Thanks, paisan!”

25. Mafioso

This term is used to refer to a member of the Mafia, a criminal organization originating in Sicily. It is a colloquial way of saying “Mafioso” in Sicilian dialect.

For example, in discussions about organized crime, you might hear, “He’s believed to be a high-ranking mafioso.”
In movies or TV shows about the Mafia, characters might be referred to as mafiosos.
If someone is suspected of having connections to the Mafia, you might hear rumors like, “I heard he’s related to a mafioso.”

26. Cuzzu

Derived from the Italian word “cugino,” cuzzu is a term of endearment used to refer to a close friend or family member, particularly a cousin. It is commonly used within the Sicilian community to express familiarity and affection.

For example, a Sicilian might greet a friend by saying, “Hey, cuzzu! How’s it going?”
In a conversation about family, someone might say, “My cuzzu Vito is coming over for dinner tonight.”
If two Sicilian friends haven’t seen each other in a while, one might say, “It’s good to see you, cuzzu! It’s been too long.”

27. Capo

Derived from the Italian word for “head,” capo is a slang term used to refer to a leader or boss, particularly within a criminal organization. It can also be used more generally to refer to someone who is in charge or has authority.

For instance, in a discussion about the Mafia, someone might say, “The capo is the highest-ranking member of a crime family.”
In a workplace setting, a colleague might say, “Our capo is always making the final decisions.”
If someone is describing a person who is highly influential, they might say, “He’s the capo of the music industry.”

28. Basta

Derived from the Italian word for “enough,” basta is a common Sicilian slang term used to express the idea of “that’s enough” or “stop.” It can be used in various contexts to indicate a desire for something to come to an end.

For example, if someone is talking too much, a Sicilian might say, “Basta! I don’t want to hear any more.”
In a discussion about a frustrating situation, someone might exclaim, “Basta! I can’t take it anymore.”
If someone is overindulging in food, a Sicilian might jokingly say, “Basta! Save some for the rest of us!”

29. Fugheddaboudit

Derived from a combination of Italian and English, “fugheddaboudit” is a slang phrase commonly associated with Sicilian-American culture. It is used to dismiss or reject a suggestion or idea, often with a sense of finality or impossibility.

For instance, if someone suggests a difficult task, a Sicilian might respond, “Fugheddaboudit! It’s not worth the trouble.”
In a conversation about a failed plan, someone might say, “We tried to make it work, but fugheddaboudit.”
If someone is reminiscing about a past event, they might say, “Those were the days. Fugheddaboudit.”

30. Mangia

Derived from the Italian word for “eat,” mangia is a slang term commonly used within the Sicilian community to encourage someone to enjoy their meal or to express excitement about food.

For example, if someone is cooking a delicious meal, a Sicilian might say, “Mangia! It smells amazing.”
In a conversation about a favorite restaurant, someone might say, “Their pasta dishes are incredible. Mangia!”
If someone is hesitant to try a new dish, a Sicilian might say, “Come on, mangia! You’ll love it.”

31. Stunad

This is a Sicilian slang term used to describe someone who is foolish or dim-witted. It is often used in a light-hearted or playful manner.

For example, a person might say, “He’s such a stunad for forgetting his keys again.”
In a joking manner, someone might tease, “Don’t be a stunad, use your brain!”
When someone makes a silly mistake, another person might laugh and say, “You’re such a stunad sometimes!”

32. Bambino

In Sicilian slang, “bambino” means child. It is a term of endearment often used to refer to a young boy.

For instance, a parent might say, “Come here, bambino, it’s time for dinner.”
A grandparent might affectionately call their grandson, “My little bambino.”
When talking about a mischievous child, someone might say, “That bambino is always getting into trouble!”

33. Bella

In Sicilian slang, “bella” means beautiful. It is a term often used to compliment someone’s appearance.

For example, a person might say, “You look bella in that dress.”
When admiring a picturesque view, someone might exclaim, “Mamma mia, it’s bella!”
A friend might compliment another friend by saying, “You have a bella smile.”

34. Ciao

“Ciao” is a common greeting in Sicilian slang that is used to say both hello and goodbye.

For instance, when meeting a friend, someone might say, “Ciao, how are you?”
When leaving a gathering, a person might say, “Ciao, see you later!”
In a casual conversation, someone might say, “Ciao, it was nice talking to you.”

35. Mamma mia

In Sicilian slang, “mamma mia” is an exclamation used to express surprise, excitement, or disbelief.

For example, when seeing something shocking, someone might exclaim, “Mamma mia, I can’t believe it!”
When tasting delicious food, a person might say, “Mamma mia, this is amazing!”
In a humorous situation, someone might laugh and say, “Mamma mia, that was hilarious!”

36. Nonna

This term refers to one’s grandmother in Sicilian culture. It is a term of endearment and respect for the older generation.

For example, a person might say, “I love spending time with my nonna. She always makes the best pasta.”
When talking about family, someone might say, “My nonna is the matriarch of our family.”
A person might reminisce, “I have such fond memories of baking cookies with my nonna when I was a child.”

37. Nonno

This term refers to one’s grandfather in Sicilian culture. It is a term of endearment and respect for the older generation.

For instance, a person might say, “My nonno taught me how to fish when I was young.”
When discussing family traditions, someone might say, “My nonno always tells the best stories about our ancestors.”
A person might express gratitude, “I’m so lucky to have had such a wise and loving nonno.”

38. Baci

This term is used to refer to kisses in Sicilian culture. It can be used as a playful way to show affection.

For example, a person might say, “Send baci to your nonna for me.”
When expressing love, someone might say, “I give you baci because you’re so sweet.”
A person might use it as a farewell, “Baci! See you soon!”

39. Fango

This term refers to mud in Sicilian. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a messy or dirty situation.

For instance, someone might say, “Don’t walk through that fango, you’ll ruin your shoes.”
When talking about a difficult situation, a person might say, “I feel like I’m stuck in fango and can’t find a way out.”
A person might use it to describe a messy room, “My bedroom is a fango right now, I need to clean it.”

40. Funiculì, funiculà

This term refers to a traditional Sicilian song called “Funiculì, funiculà.” It is a famous Neapolitan song that celebrates the funicular railway on Mount Vesuvius.

For example, a person might say, “Let’s sing Funiculì, funiculà together at the family gathering.”
When discussing Sicilian culture, someone might mention, “Funiculì, funiculà is a beloved song that represents the spirit of the region.”
A person might reminisce, “I remember my nonno singing Funiculì, funiculà when I was a child.”

41. Gelato

Gelato is the Italian word for ice cream. It refers to a frozen dessert made with milk, sugar, and various flavors. Gelato is known for its creamy texture and intense flavors.

For example, “Let’s go grab some gelato after dinner.”
A person might say, “I had the most delicious pistachio gelato in Italy.”
A gelato shop owner might advertise, “Try our homemade gelato made with fresh ingredients.”

42. Tarantella

The tarantella is a lively and energetic Italian folk dance that originated in the region of Sicily. It is typically performed by couples and involves fast-paced movements and intricate footwork.

For instance, “The wedding reception ended with a traditional tarantella dance.”
A person might say, “I love watching the dancers perform the tarantella during festivals.”
A dance instructor might teach, “To perform the tarantella, start with a quick hop and then move your feet in a quick side-to-side motion.”

43. Pizzica

Pizzica is a genre of traditional Italian folk music that originated in the southern region of Italy, including Sicily. It is characterized by its lively rhythms and often features instruments such as the tambourine and accordion.

For example, “The festival had a live band playing pizzica music.”
A person might say, “I enjoy listening to pizzica music while cooking.”
A musician might explain, “Pizzica music is often played at weddings and other festive occasions.”

44. Cannoli

A cannoli is a traditional Italian pastry that originated in Sicily. It consists of a tube-shaped shell made of fried dough, filled with a sweet and creamy ricotta cheese filling. Cannoli are often topped with powdered sugar or chocolate chips.

For instance, “I can’t resist a freshly filled cannoli.”
A person might say, “The bakery in Little Italy makes the best cannoli.”
A chef might explain, “To make cannoli, you need to fry the shells until they are crispy and then pipe in the ricotta filling.”

45. Goomba

In Sicilian slang, “goomba” is a term used to refer to a friend or companion. It is derived from the Italian word “compare,” which means godfather or close friend.

For example, “Hey, goomba, let’s grab a coffee.”
A person might say, “I’ve known my goomba since we were kids.”
Two friends might joke, “Hey, goomba, you owe me a favor!”

46. Cugino

This term is used to refer to a male cousin in Sicilian culture. It is often used affectionately or casually.

For example, “Hey, cugino! How’s it going?”
In a conversation about family, someone might say, “I have a lot of cugini in Sicily.”
A Sicilian might introduce their cousin by saying, “This is my cugino, Antonio.”

47. Fugheddaboutit

This phrase is used to dismiss or reject something, often with a sense of finality. It is commonly used in Sicilian-American communities and has gained popularity in mainstream culture.

For instance, if someone offers you something you don’t want, you might say, “Fugheddaboutit.”
In a discussion about past mistakes, someone might say, “I made a big mess, but I’ve learned to fugheddaboutit.”
A Sicilian might use this phrase to emphasize the impossibility of a situation by saying, “You think you can change that? Fugheddaboutit!”

48. Gabagool

This is a type of Italian cold cut made from pork shoulder or neck. The term “gabagool” is a mispronunciation of “capicola” commonly used in Sicilian-American communities.

For example, “I’ll have a sandwich with gabagool and provolone.”
In a conversation about Italian deli meats, someone might say, “Gabagool is one of my favorites.”
A Sicilian might correct someone by saying, “It’s pronounced ‘capicola,’ not ‘gabagool.'”

49. Madonne

This term is used as an interjection or exclamation to express surprise, disbelief, or frustration. It is derived from the Italian word “Madonna,” which is a reference to the Virgin Mary in Catholicism.

For instance, if someone tells you something shocking, you might exclaim, “Madonne!”
In a discussion about a frustrating situation, someone might say, “Madonne, I can’t believe this is happening.”
A Sicilian might use this term to express amazement by saying, “Madonne, that’s incredible!”

50. Strega

This term is used to refer to a female witch in Sicilian culture. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a cunning or manipulative woman.

For example, “She’s like a strega, always causing trouble.”
In a conversation about folklore, someone might say, “Sicilian streghe were believed to have magical powers.”
A Sicilian might use this term affectionately to describe an older woman by saying, “My nonna is a wise strega.”

51. Faccia di culo

This is a derogatory term used to insult someone’s face or appearance. It is considered highly offensive and disrespectful.

For example, if someone is being rude or disrespectful, you might say, “Che faccia di culo!” which translates to “What an ass face!”
In a heated argument, one person might yell at another, “Vai a farti fottere, faccia di culo!” which means “Go fuck yourself, ass face!”
A person might use this term jokingly with a close friend, saying, “Hai una faccia da culo oggi!” meaning “You have an ass face today!”

52. Cazzimma

This is a vulgar term used to express frustration, annoyance, or disappointment. It is similar to the English word “shit” and is considered offensive.

For instance, if something goes wrong, you might exclaim, “Cazzimma!” which means “Shit!”
In a conversation about a difficult situation, someone might say, “Che cazzimma! Non so come risolvere questo problema!” meaning “What a shit! I don’t know how to solve this problem!”
A person might use this term jokingly with a friend, saying, “Hai fatto una cazzimma!” which translates to “You messed up!”

53. Scappare

This word means “to run away” in English. It can be used to describe physically running away from a location or escaping from a situation.

For example, if someone is being chased, you might yell, “Scappare!” which means “Run away!”
In a conversation about a dangerous situation, one person might advise another, “Sei in pericolo. Dovresti scappare!” meaning “You are in danger. You should run away!”
A person might use this word to describe their own escape from a boring event, saying, “Mi sono scappato dalla festa. Era noiosa!” which translates to “I ran away from the party. It was boring!”

54. Pizzaiolo

This term refers to a person who makes pizzas professionally. It is commonly used to describe someone who works in a pizzeria or specializes in making pizzas.

For instance, if you visit a pizzeria, you might ask, “Chi è il pizzaiolo?” which means “Who is the pizza maker?”
In a discussion about pizza, someone might say, “I pizzaioli italiani sono famosi in tutto il mondo!” which translates to “Italian pizza makers are famous worldwide!”
A person might use this term to compliment a pizza maker, saying, “Hai fatto una pizza deliziosa! Sei un bravo pizzaiolo!” meaning “You made a delicious pizza! You are a talented pizza maker!”

55. Babbaluci

This word refers to snails in English. It is commonly used to talk about the edible snails that are often cooked and served as a dish.

For example, if you see snails on a menu, you might say, “Vorrei provare i babbaluci!” which means “I would like to try the snails!”
In a conversation about unusual foods, someone might mention, “In Sicilia, i babbaluci sono una specialità!” which translates to “In Sicily, snails are a specialty!”
A person might use this word to describe their experience eating snails, saying, “Ho assaggiato i babbaluci per la prima volta. Sono sorprendentemente buoni!” meaning “I tried snails for the first time. They are surprisingly good!”

56. Mascalzone

This word is used to describe a person who is mischievous or deceitful. It can also be used in a playful or endearing way.

For example, “Don’t trust him, he’s a mascalzone.”
In a joking context, someone might say, “You’re such a mascalzone, always causing trouble.”
A person might affectionately refer to their friend as a mascalzone, saying, “You’re my favorite mascalzone!”

57. Ciuri-ciuri

This term is used to refer to a flower, particularly in a poetic or romantic context. It can also be used to describe something beautiful or delicate.

For instance, “Look at the ciuri-ciuri blooming in the garden.”
A person might compliment a painting, saying, “It’s as beautiful as a ciuri-ciuri.”
Someone might describe a delicate piece of jewelry as “dainty like a ciuri-ciuri.”

58. Basta chiagnere

This phrase translates to “enough complaining” and is used to tell someone to stop whining or complaining.

For example, “Basta chiagnere! Find a solution instead.”
In a frustrating situation, someone might say, “Basta chiagnere, let’s figure out what to do.”
A parent might use this phrase with their child, saying, “Basta chiagnere, it’s time to be brave.”

59. Sfogliatelle

Sfogliatelle is a traditional Sicilian pastry that is often filled with sweet ricotta cheese and flavored with orange or lemon. The word can also be used to refer to any type of pastry or baked goods.

For instance, “Let’s go to the bakery and get some sfogliatelle.”
A person might say, “I love the crispy layers of sfogliatelle.”
Someone might bring sfogliatelle as a dessert for a dinner party, saying, “I made these delicious sfogliatelle from scratch.”