bibita

Bibita is a term used in Italian to denote a drink or beverage. Its etymology traces to the Latin bibere, meaning “to drink.” In everyday Italian, bibita refers to any liquid consumed for hydration, nourishment, or pleasure, with an emphasis on non-alcoholic drinks. In menus and commercial contexts, phrases like bibite analcoliche or bibite gassate are common for soft drinks, fruit juices, tea, coffee, and milk-based beverages.

The word sits alongside bevanda as a general synonym, though bibita is more casual and often reserved for prepared or commercially sold drinks rather than plain water. In everyday usage, bibita typically refers to non-alcoholic beverages, while alcoholic drinks are described with terms such as vino, liquori, or birre.

Common examples include succhi di frutta, tè, caffè, latte, and bibite analcoliche such as cola, aranciata, limonata, and energy drinks. Alcoholic beverages are not usually described as bibite, though in informal speech some mixtures or cocktails might be loosely referred to as bibita alcolica in certain contexts.

Nutritional aspects vary widely: many bibite contain added sugars or caffeine, and some are fortified with vitamins or minerals. Health guidance generally encourages moderating sugary beverages and being mindful of caffeine intake, especially for children and pregnant individuals. Packaging ranges from bottles to cans, with labeling detailing ingredients, energy content, and allergens.

See also: beverage, soft drink, non-alcoholic beverage.