Italianify

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. To make something or someone possess characteristics typical of Italian culture or style; to infuse Italian language, customs, or aesthetics into an object or person; to transform an aspect to reflect Italy’s influence
2. To impart Italian qualities or attributes to a subject, including language usage, traditional practices, or design elements; to adapt or modify something to appear or sound Italian; to endow with Italian cultural or stylistic features
3. To alter or adapt an entity so that it exhibits traits associated with Italy, such as cuisine, fashion, or speech patterns; to render something in a manner reminiscent of Italian origin or flair; to convert or stylize in accordance with Italian traditions or identity

Etymology: "Italianify" is a plain English formation: the adjective "Italian" plus the verb-forming suffix "-ify," which comes from Latin "-ificare," a suffix meaning "to make" (as in "simplify" or "purify"). Combining the two gives the sense "to make Italian" or "to give something an Italian character." English has long attached "-ify" to adjectives and nouns of nationality and style, so the word belongs to a productive pattern rather than a single moment of coinage. Dictionaries record it in the 19th century, though the exact first use is not something I can pin down with confidence. Its usage is mostly playful or descriptive, as in saying a restaurant has been "Italianified" with checkered tablecloths and a Vespa by the door.

Synonyms: italianize, italianise