A guide to saying it correctly
How to Pronounce Calamari
Pronounced with four clear syllables, emphasizing the third 'MAR' sound. It's not 'cal-a-MARE-ee'.
calamari
KAL-uh-MAHR-ee
/kal.uh.MAHR.ee/ · kal · a · MAHR · ee
Native US English · Kokoro neural TTS · 0:01
It's also common in discussions about seafood and Italian cuisine.
Where the word comes from
The word 'calamari' comes from the Italian word for 'squid'. It's the plural form of 'calamaro'.
Common ways people get it wrong
- kal-uh-MARE-ee Some people pronounce the final syllable like 'mare' or 'merry', but it should rhyme with 'marry' or 'starry'.
Frequently asked
How do you say calamari?
It's pronounced kal-uh-MAHR-ee. Make sure to stress the third syllable, 'MAHR'.
Is calamari Italian?
Yes, the word 'calamari' is Italian. It's the plural of 'calamaro', which means squid.
What's the difference between calamari and squid?
In culinary terms, 'calamari' is the Italian word for squid and is often used to refer to squid prepared as food, especially fried.
