CasualVenetonoun
bocia
kid, young boy
Literal Translation
"bocce ball (small ball)"
Formal Equivalent
ragazzo, bambino
Examples in Context
"Dai bocia, vieni a giocare con noi."
"Come on kid, come play with us."
"Quel bocia è sveglio, impara in fretta."
"That kid is sharp, he learns fast."
⚠️
Cultural Note
Widely used across the Triveneto (Veneto, Trentino, Friuli). The word comes from 'boccia' (ball) — a small, round thing, hence a child. It's affectionate and never offensive. In the military, 'bocia' traditionally referred to the newest recruit. Also common in Trentino-Alto Adige.
Want to practice Italian?
Take a free placement test and start with grammar exercises.