Definition
To find something or someone; to discover or come across something, either by searching or by chance.
Example
Non riesco a trovare le mie chiavi di casa.
Show translation
I can't find my house keys.
Etymology
From Latin *tropāre* ("to compose, to invent, to discover"), which gave rise to both Italian *trovare* and Old French *trouver*. The same Latin root also produced the word *troubadour* — the medieval poet-musicians who "found" (invented) their verses.
Cultural note
*Trovare* is highly versatile in everyday Italian. Beyond physically finding things, Italians use it to express opinions: *Lo trovo interessante* ("I find it interesting"). The reflexive form *trovarsi* means "to be located" (*Il bar si trova in centro* — "The café is in the centre") or "to feel/get on" (*Mi trovo bene qui* — "I feel comfortable here"). Don't confuse it with the false friend English "trove," which is a noun, not a verb.