svastica

swastika

noun ZVAH-stee-kah Rare

Origin: From Sanskrit svastika (lucky symbol), from svasti (well-being).

Usage Note

Svastica is the Italian word for the swastika. Historically the symbol predates Nazism and appeared in many cultures as a symbol of good fortune, but in Italian (as in most European languages) it is now almost exclusively associated with the Nazi regime. Displaying it publicly is a criminal offence under Italian law (apologia del fascismo). Plural: svastiche.

Examples

"La svastica è un simbolo del nazismo."

Natural Translation

The swastika is a symbol of Nazism.

Related Words

Explore Italian by topic

ItalianNow

Italian Dialects vs Standard Italian: A Guide

Standard Italian works everywhere, so relax: this three-layer guide to Italian dialects vs standard Italian shows what to ignore and what to notice.

June 9, 2026 6 min read

ItalianNow

Tu vs Lei: Formal & Informal "You" in Italian

When in doubt, use Lei. Here's exactly when to use tu vs Lei in Italian — the who-to-use-with map, the verb and possessive shifts, and how to switch politely.

June 5, 2026 6 min read

ItalianNow

Essential Italian Travel Phrases (With Vorrei)

Vorrei means I would like — the politest, most useful Italian travel phrase. Learn five reusable frames to order, ask prices, and find your way in Italy.

June 5, 2026 5 min read

ItalianNow

Most Common Italian Verbs: The 10 That Unlock Speech

Drill these 10 most common Italian verbs first and you unlock past tense, modals, and the progressive — a 7-day plan with every present-tense form to memorize.

June 9, 2026 5 min read