autodefinire

to self-define

noun adjective ow-toh-deh-fee-NEE-reh Rare

Also means

to define oneself

Usage Note

Autodefinire is typically used reflexively as autodefinirsi, meaning to describe or label oneself: si autodefinisce artista ('he defines himself as an artist'). It is a relatively recent formation, common in sociological and journalistic Italian. Takes essere as auxiliary in reflexive form.

Examples

"Si autodefinisce un filosofo moderno."

Natural Translation

He defines himself as a modern philosopher.

Literal Translation

Himself he-defines a philosopher modern.

Free starter pack

Building your Italian vocabulary?

Get the 100 most common Italian words as a free PDF — one email, no spam.

Related Words

Explore Italian by topic

ItalianNow

Italian Restaurant Etiquette: Mistakes to Avoid

Skip the cappuccino after dinner, never put parmesan on fish, and learn the exact Italian phrases to order gracefully and avoid looking like a tourist.

June 5, 2026 5 min read

ItalianNow

Italian Hand Gestures: Meanings & When to Use

Italian hand gestures decoded: what the pinched fingers, cheek screw, and chin flick mean, which ones are safe to use, and the one gesture to never make.

June 5, 2026 6 min read

ItalianNow

C'è vs Ci Sono: There Is/Are in Italian

C'è for one thing, ci sono for many — that's the rule. Master Italian's there is/there are with c'era, ci sarà, è vs c'è, and non c'è nessuno.

June 9, 2026 5 min read

ItalianNow

You're Welcome in Italian: 8 Ways Beyond Prego

You're welcome in Italian is more than prego: say figurati to friends, si figuri to strangers, di niente, non c'è di che, or grazie a te. Pick the right one.

June 9, 2026 6 min read