Sicilian: faccia bedda

[Cecelia]

My nana used to say "faccia baida" to me when I was little, but I can't find the second word anywhere...I know that I'm probably spelling it wrong. Does anyone recognize this saying?

 

[Saoul]

If she was from the South of Italy, it could be "faccia bedda" meaning "beautiful face". "Baida" doesn't really mean something, I'm afraid.

 

[Cecelia]

Thank you! yes bedda sounds right, She is from Sicily, so that is great, Thanks!

 

[Saoul]

Ok, so that is the word. "Bedda" is Sicilian dialect for the Italian "bella" meaning beautiful.

You're welcome.

 

[aunttilly]

When my mom & Nanna were suddenly startled by something they would gasp & say "Bedda Matti !" Not sure on the spelling, but I'm pretty sure the meaning was "Blessed Mother!" , as this would be a time for prayer.

 

[You little ripper!]

When my mom & Nanna were suddenly startled by something they would gasp & say "Bedda Matti !" Not sure on the spelling, but I'm pretty sure the meaning was "Blessed Mother!" , as this would be a time for prayer.

10 Sicilian words that you need to know - Sicilian Food Culture

Literally, Bedda Matri is “beautiful mother” but the way that Sicilians are using it is the exact same way as “Oh my god” in the English language: depending on your tone, you can use it if you’re scared or if you’re surprised!