How to Pronounce Tiramisù (Like a Real Italian)

It’s one of the most beloved Italian desserts around the world, yet its name often trips people up. Here's how to pronounce tiramisù like a real Italian.

Whether found on the menu of a tiny Roman trattoria or recreated in kitchens from Tokyo to Toronto, tiramisù remains a favourite - but are people actually pronouncing it right? Before digging into the linguistic side of things, it helps to know a little about where this layered delight comes from.

The History of Tiramisù

Tiramisù is relatively young, at least in culinary terms. While many classic Italian desserts can trace their roots back centuries, tiramisù only emerged in the 1960s or 1970s. There’s some debate over where exactly it was invented—Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia both claim it—but most agree that it began as a pick-me-up dessert served in Italian cafés. The name itself means “pick me up” or “cheer me up” in Italian, from tirare (to pull), mi (me), and su (up). With ingredients like espresso, sugar, and mascarpone, it’s easy to see why the name stuck.

How to Pronounce Tiramisù

Now for the pronunciation. In Italian, the word is said with a light, musical rhythm that rolls off the tongue. The correct pronunciation in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) is /ˌtiramiˈsu/.

Breaking it down: the stress falls on the final syllable, sù. English speakers often make the mistake of stressing the first or second syllable, or even anglicising it into something like “tear-a-miss-oo.” But in Italian, it’s all about that rising cadence, ending with a bright, open “u” sound—su, not soo.

How to Improve your Pronunciation

Want to hear it for yourself? This short video by "Italian with Elisa" captures the authentic sound clearly: soft ti, quick ra, then a warm and rounded mi-sù. And if you're curious to hear how Italians say it while actually preparing it, this homestyle tiramisù della nonna recipe shows the word used naturally in context—complete with spoon-licking and that unmistakable Italian warmth.

Fun Facts About Tiramisù

And just for fun: did you know that tiramisù holds the title of Italy’s most popular dessert, even ahead of classics like panna cotta or cannoli? It also inspired an entire day of celebration: March 21 is officially Tiramisù Day in Italy. What began as a simple after-dinner treat has now become a global icon of Italian cuisine. So the next time it’s on the menu, you’ll know how to say it with confidence—and maybe even impress your dinner companions with a few facts.