Italian: The Surprising Origins of Words
Date: Thursday 10 September - Thursday 8 October 2026
Time: 11.45 - 13.15
Venue: Crescent Arts Center, Belfast
Price: 53 £53 | £48
Weeks: 5
Tutor: Federica Ferrieri
Level: Lower Intermediate & Intermedaite
Book NowDiscover the fascinating stories hidden behind some of everyday Italian words. This interactive five-week course explores the unexpected etymology of a wide range of Italian vocabulary, tracing words back to Latin and Greek roots as well as influences from many other languages and cultures. From 'ambaradan' to 'galeotto', from 'salamelecchi' to 'tramezzino', you will uncover the surprising journeys that words have taken before becoming part of modern Italian.
Designed for lower-intermediate and intermediate learners of Italian, the course uses discussion, role plays, creative activities, and authentic cultural materials to develop language skills while expanding and consolidating vocabulary.
Unsure if this language level is right for you? Click here to read our helpful guide.
Meet the Tutor
Dr Federica Ferrieri has lived in Northern Ireland since 2010, after spending time in the Netherlands and Greece. She holds a PhD in Modern Greek Language and Literature, and her expertise lies in both the theory and practice of language teaching.
She works as a Civic Engagement Officer at Queen's University Belfast, and she also continues to pursue her passion for teaching foreign languages – mainly Italian. She served as the Italian Honorary Consul in Northern Ireland from 2016 to 2025.
Federica is particularly interested in projects that connect language learning with arts-based approaches, restorative justice, diversity and representation.
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