Soprannome vs. nomignolo
The Italian words 'soprannome' and 'nomignolo' both translate to 'nickname' in English, but they have subtle differences in usage and connotation.
Soprannome
'Soprannome' is generally used for more formal or widely recognized nicknames. It can refer to epithets, bynames, or aliases that are often used to describe a person's character or achievements.
Il soprannome di Giuseppe Garibaldi era 'l'eroe dei due mondi'.
(Giuseppe Garibaldi's nickname was 'the hero of two worlds'.)
Leonardo da Vinci è conosciuto con il soprannome 'il genio del Rinascimento'.
(Leonardo da Vinci is known by the nickname 'the Renaissance genius'.)
Il soprannome di Napoleone Bonaparte era 'il Piccolo Caporale'.
(Napoleon Bonaparte's nickname was 'the Little Corporal'.)
Nomignolo
'Nomignolo' typically refers to more informal, affectionate, or playful nicknames. It's often used for pet names or nicknames given by family and friends.
Il nomignolo di mia sorella è 'Ciccina' perché era paffuta da bambina.
(My sister's nickname is 'Ciccina' because she was chubby as a child.)
I nonni chiamano il nipotino con il nomignolo 'Pulcino'.
(The grandparents call their little grandson by the nickname 'Pulcino' (little chick).)
Il suo nomignolo in famiglia è 'Patatina' perché adora le patate fritte.
(His family nickname is 'Patatina' (little potato) because he loves french fries.)
Summary
While both 'soprannome' and 'nomignolo' mean 'nickname', 'soprannome' is typically used for more formal or widely recognized nicknames, often describing a person's qualities or achievements. 'Nomignolo', on the other hand, is used for more informal, affectionate nicknames, usually given by family or friends.