mano a carciofo
the 'artichoke hand' gesture (pinched fingers)
Advanced Phrase
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Pronunciation
/ˈmaːno a karˈtʃɔːfo/
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Cultural Note
The pinched-fingers gesture, technically 'mano a carciofo' or 'mano a tulipano,' is Italy's most iconic gesture, now even an emoji. It can express 'what do you want?' 'what are you saying?' or general exasperation. The fingers are bunched together pointing upward and moved up and down.
📝 Example Sentences
Ha fatto la mano a carciofo e ha detto: 'Ma che vuoi?'
He made the pinched-fingers gesture and said: 'What do you want?'
La mano a carciofo è il gesto italiano più famoso al mondo.
The artichoke hand is the most famous Italian gesture in the world.
Quando fa la mano a carciofo, sai che è irritato.
When he makes the artichoke hand, you know he's irritated.