enti

Enti is the plural of ente in Italian and refers to an entity or organized body. The singular ente denotes any being that exists or an organization with legal personality. The term derives from Latin ens, entis, meaning being, and is used in philosophy as well as in everyday language to indicate something that exists as a thing or agent.

In Italian law and public administration, ente is a standard term for bodies that have separate legal personality. An ente pubblico is a public entity that performs administrative functions on behalf of the state, region, or municipality. An ente privato refers to a private organization, such as a foundation, association, or corporation, that nonetheless has legal personality. The category ente morale is used for non-profit or charitable bodies recognized under law. The broader phrase ente di diritto pubblico or ente pubblico non economico distinguishes public-sector entities that operate with a public mission from those with an economic function; many research institutes, hospitals, universities, and cultural organizations are designated as enti.

In philosophy and ontology, ente is used to translate the generic notion of a being or entity. The plural enti is used when discussing multiple beings or organizational entities in Italian scholarly writing.

In everyday Italian, examples include l’ente locale (local authority), l’ente di ricerca (research institution), l’ente benefico (charitable organization), or l’ente sanitario (healthcare body).

In English-language contexts, enti is rarely used outside translations; English typically uses entity, organization, or institution.