piazza
UK: /piˈæt.sə/ | US: /piˈɑːt.sə/
n. a large public square or marketplace, especially in an Italian town
n. (by extension) an open plaza or courtyard, often surrounded by buildings
The word "piazza" comes directly from Italian, where it originally meant "square" or "open space." It traces back to the Latin platea, meaning "broad street" or "courtyard," which itself derives from Greek plateia (hodos), "broad (way)." Over time, "piazza" evolved in English to specifically denote Italian-style public squares, often lined with colonnades or cafes, reflecting its Mediterranean cultural roots.
We enjoyed our coffee at a small café in the bustling piazza.
The historic piazza was filled with musicians and street performers.
The hotel overlooked a charming piazza with a central fountain.
Tourists gathered in the piazza to watch the sunset.
The piazza serves as the heart of the town’s social life.