Sera” Meaning

“Sera” is the Italian word for “evening.” It simply refers to the time of day after the sun goes down and before night fully sets in.

People use “sera” when they greet each other after about 4 p.m. in Italy: “Buona sera” is the friendly way to say “Good evening.” You’ll also see it on menus—pizza della sera means “tonight’s special pizza”—and in casual chat when someone asks, “Cosa fai stasera?” (“What are you doing this evening?”).

Meaning & Usage Examples

Buona sera – polite greeting after 4 p.m.
Cena di sera – dinner in the evening
Stasera – short for “this evening,” used daily: “Stasera andiamo al cinema?”

Context / Common Use

You’ll hear “sera” in cafés, restaurants, and everyday Italian conversations. It’s not formal or fancy—just the normal way Italians talk about the evening hours.

What does “Buona sera” mean?

It means “Good evening” and you say it from late afternoon onward.

Is “sera” the same as “notte”?

No. “Sera” is early evening; “notte” is full night.