Sicilian: faccia bedda

C

Cecelia

New Member
English-U.S.
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?
 
    • 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.
     
    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.
     
    aunttilly said:
    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.
    Click to expand...
    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!
     
    You little ripper! said:
    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!
    Click to expand...
    I saw in another forum saying that Bedda Matri was also used as a blessing in the response to Sabbennedica. In this case I think the Bedda is not taken 100% litterally and it does take on a form of "blessed" or something to that effect. So, I would be inclined to think that you are both correct.
     
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