convertiti

Convertiti is the plural noun in Italian used to describe people who have converted from one belief, religion, or system of principles to another. While most often encountered in religious contexts, it can also apply to changes of allegiance or ideology. The standard gendered forms are convertito (singular masculine), convertita (singular feminine), and the plurals convertiti (masculine or mixed) and convertite (feminine).

Etymology: The term derives from the verb convertire (“to convert”) and from the Latin past participle convertitus, itself from convertere (“to turn around, to bring about a change of direction”).

Usage and context: In religious history, convertiti often refers to new adherents who embraced the Christian faith, sometimes after baptism. In modern discourse it can describe converts to any religion, to secular ideologies, or to political beliefs. The term is neutral, though its connotations can vary with context and audience.

See also: conversion, conversion to Christianity, apostasy, proselytism.