Definition
Close in distance or relationship; nearby. As a noun, it also means a neighbor.
Example
Il supermercato è molto vicino a casa mia.
Show translation
The supermarket is very close to my house.
Etymology
From Latin *vicinus* ("neighbor, nearby"), derived from *vicus* ("village, district, row of houses"). The same root gave English "vicinity" and "village," and Italian *via* ("street") is a close relative.
Cultural note
In Italian daily life, *vicino/a* (neighbor) carries strong social weight — neighbors in Italian culture are traditionally expected to be helpful and present. The phrase *il buon vicinato* ("good neighborliness") is a valued social ideal. Note the gender and number agreement: *vicino* (m. sg.), *vicina* (f. sg.), *vicini* (m. pl.), *vicine* (f. pl.).