fanciulli

Fanciulli is an Italian word that translates to "children" or "boys" in English. It is a masculine plural noun and is often used in a general sense to refer to young people. The singular form is fanciullo, meaning "boy" or "child." The term can encompass a range of ages, typically from infancy up to adolescence.

Historically, "fanciulli" appeared in various forms of Italian literature and art, often depicting scenes of childhood, play, or education. The word carries a connotation of youthfulness and innocence. In modern Italian, while still understood, the more common terms for children are "bambini" (children, general) and "ragazzi" (boys/girls, older children/teenagers).

The use of "fanciulli" can sometimes lend a slightly more formal or poetic tone compared to everyday usage. It is less common in casual conversation but might be encountered in more formal writing, historical contexts, or when emphasizing a specific aspect of childhood, such as the innocence or vulnerability associated with the term. The feminine equivalent, "fanciulle," refers to "girls" or "young women."