Italianate

Part of speech: adjective

Definitions

1. Characterized by visual and architectural elements reminiscent of Italian styles, especially in detailed ornamentation and classical forms
2. Exhibiting traits or design principles that reflect the influence of Italian culture, particularly in art and architecture
3. Relating to or resembling an aesthetic that incorporates features typical of Italian styles, often seen in decorative arts and buildings

Etymology: Italianate is simply Italian with the English adjective-forming suffix "-ate" added, so its history is the history of that suffix. The "-ate" ending came into English through Latin "-atus" and was used widely to build adjectives meaning "having the form or character of" something, as in "passionate" or "ornate." Attaching it to "Italian" produced a word meaning "in the manner of Italy or Italians," which is how the word is used today. The formation is so transparent that the word needs little explanation beyond its parts. Its meaning follows the ordinary pattern of "-ate" adjectives: something is Italianate when it imitates Italian style, whether in architecture, garden design, music, or manners, without necessarily being Italian itself.

Synonyms: Italian-style