Bocca

/ˈbɑkə/ noun

Definition

An Italian word meaning 'mouth'; used in English primarily in musical and anatomical contexts, or in the phrase 'in bocca al lupo' (Italian for 'good luck').

Etymology

From Latin 'bucca' (mouth, cheek); bocca is the Italian descendant of this Latin root and has been adopted into English in specialized musical terminology.

Kelly Says

The Italian phrase 'in bocca al lupo' literally means 'in the mouth of the wolf' as a way to wish someone good luck—it's a superstition-defying expression where you wish them into danger because the opposite wish might jinx them! It's the Italian equivalent of 'break a leg' in theater.

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