Bagnato vs. umido
The Italian words 'bagnato' and 'umido' both translate to 'wet' in English, but they have subtle differences in usage and intensity.
Bagnato
'Bagnato' refers to something that is thoroughly wet or soaked, often as a result of direct contact with water or liquid.
Il cane è bagnato dopo aver nuotato nel lago.
(The dog is wet after swimming in the lake.)
Ho dimenticato l'ombrello e sono tornato a casa completamente bagnato dalla pioggia.
(I forgot my umbrella and came home completely soaked from the rain.)
Umido
'Umido' describes something that is damp, moist, or slightly wet, often referring to environmental conditions or surfaces that retain moisture.
Il clima della foresta pluviale è molto umido.
(The rainforest climate is very humid.)
Le foglie sul terreno erano umide di rugiada.
(The leaves on the ground were damp with dew.)
Summary
While 'bagnato' is used for objects or people that are thoroughly wet or soaked, 'umido' describes a less intense state of wetness, often referring to dampness or moisture in the environment or on surfaces. 'Bagnato' implies direct contact with water, while 'umido' can describe a general state of moisture without direct water exposure.