tubino

Tubino is an Italian noun formed with the diminutive suffix -ino from tubo, meaning a small tube or pipe. It is used in everyday and technical language to refer to a short or narrow cylindrical object, such as a segment of tubing, a small pipe, or a lightweight cylindrical component in various fields.

In technical contexts, tubino denotes small tubular parts used in plumbing, hydraulics, automotive, and mechanical applications. It can describe a short length of tubing or a sleeve-like component that fits around another part. The term is common in drawings, parts lists, and product descriptions.

In fashion, tubino has a distinct meaning. It refers to a sheath dress with a straight, close-fitting silhouette that typically falls around the knee. The phrase “abito tubino” is widely used in Italian fashion journalism and retail to describe this classic, minimalist style. A tubino nero, or little black dress, is a well-known example often cited as a staple of elegant, versatile apparel.

Etymology and usage note: the word illustrates how Italian forms diminutives to expand meaning from a general category to a smaller or more specific version. While tubino mainly appears in technical and fashion contexts, it can also be heard in colloquial descriptions of slender, tube-like objects.