invito

Invito is a term with several related meanings in different languages, most prominently in Italian and Latin. In Italian, invito functions as both a noun and a verb form: as a masculine noun, l’invito means an invitation; as a verb, invito is the first-person singular present indicative of invitare, meaning I invite. In Latin, invito appears as a first-person singular present active form of invitare, meaning I invite.

Etymology and usage arise from the Latin verb invitare, meaning to invite or solicit. Through Italian, the word has entered common social usage as a straightforward invitation to attend an event, meal, or gathering. The associated noun l’invito is used for physical or digital invitations, and phrases such as “un invito formale” or “accetto l’invito” are typical in Italian communication. The verb forms follow regular patterns for -are verbs in Italian.

In Italian culture, inviti take many forms—from printed invitations for ceremonies to informal messages requesting attendance. The customary response to an invitation often involves an RSVP, or conferma di partecipazione, to indicate whether the invitee will attend. The term also appears in figurative expressions, such as inviting someone to participate in an activity or discussion.

Across other languages, the word invito is less common as a noun. In Spanish, the corresponding noun is invitación, while invitar is the verb “to invite,” with invito as the first-person singular present form. In Latin texts, invito appears primarily in historical contexts as the verb form. In English-language contexts, invito may be used stylistically to evoke Italian usage, especially in invitations or culinary settings.