cestini

Cestini is the plural form of cestino, a noun in Italian that denotes small baskets or containers. The term is used across several contexts to describe lightweight, portable receptacles made from materials such as wicker, straw, or plastic. The diminutive form signals smaller sizes relative to a standard basket.

Etymology and usage notes: Cestino derives from cesto, meaning basket, with the diminutive suffix -ino. The word is common in Italian-speaking regions and appears in everyday language as well as in more specialized or culinary contexts.

Common uses: In households, cestino often refers to a wastebasket or trash bin, for example cestino della spazzatura. It is also used for containers that hold bread or fruit at meals, such as cestino del pane or cestino della frutta. In gardening, cestini are hanging baskets (cestini sospesi) used for flowers andTrailing plants, decorative or ornamental.

Culinary uses: In Italian cuisine and catering, edible cestini are small cups or baskets made from ingredients such as pastry dough, bread, or Parmigiano Reggiano that serve as edible vessels for antipasti, salads, or desserts. These are commonly featured in buffets, receptions, and plated dishes to present bite-sized portions.

Other contexts: The term can appear in commercial or retail settings to describe small packaging baskets or display baskets for fruits, vegetables, or baked goods. While related terms exist in other languages, cestini remains primarily an Italian word denoting small baskets and similar containers.

See also: cesto, cestino, hanging basket.