Thanks for everyone's input, but I'm not trying to start any contentious discussion on this word, just seeking further insight on it's origins, functionality and context. Myself, being unsure of this word, I did the most proper and respectful thing which was to research. By that, meaning, asking a primary source (my Italian friends), proceeded by a more academic approach in looking at definitions from written and electronic sources. This is meant to be an intelligent discussion and engagement. Carmella and have provided some good information I wasn't aware of. This is necessary to have clarity.