ritrovo

Ritrovo is an Italian noun that refers to a gathering or meeting of people, often a place where individuals come together or a planned social event. The term can denote both the act of meeting and the specific location where people convene, such as a designated rendezvous point, a square, a cafe, or another public space.

Etymology and usage: Ritrovo derives from the verb ritrovarsi or ritrovare, incorporating the prefix ri- to convey return or repetition. The sense is tied to reuniting or finding one another again, with the noun form emphasizing the act of gathering rather than the person hosting it. In everyday Italian, ritrovo can describe spontaneous meetups as well as organized gatherings.

Common contexts: The word is used in expressions like “ci siamo incontrati al ritrovo” (we met at the meeting point) or “andiamo al ritrovo” (let’s go to the gathering place). It may refer to a social congregation among friends, family, colleagues, or members of a club. Ritrovo can also designate a physical venue that serves as a regular meeting place, such as a bar, restaurant, or community space that functions as a hub for a group.

In culture and usage: Beyond its general meaning, ritrovo appears as a proper name for various establishments or events in Italian-speaking regions, reflecting its association with social gathering and community.

See also: rendezvous, meetup, meeting point.