'mbari

From Late Latin compater, compatrem, from Latin cum + pater. The godfather of one's child, who becomes like the spiritual father of his godchild, because it is supposed that familial bonds and affection exist between cumpari. This term usually indicates a close friend. It is often written as 'mbare because the received pronounciation is tending increasingly towards Italian.

• IPA^(key): [mˈba.ɾɪ], /mˈba.ɾɪ/

’mbari m (plural ’mbari)

1. male baptismal sponsor of one's child, co-father, godfather
2. male witness at one's wedding, best man
3. close male friend, (slang) guy

   Com'è ’mbari, chi si dici?. What's up, friend?.

• cummari

• cumpari

• comparatico
• padrino
• godfather