Definition of "finocchio"

Finocchios are shoots of the fennel, an odoriferous plant of the Umbelliferae family.

1974, Ali-Bab (author) and Elizabeth Benson (translator), Encyclopedia of Practical Gastronomy, page 41

For the first time, finocchio, or Florence fennel, has performed for me as it should and has swollen out into bulbous protrusions at the base of its leaf stalks.

1981, Country Life, volume 170, page 1,057

The strong anise odor of finocchio repels many insects from other vegetables.

1983, Theodore James, The Gourmet Garden, page 44

Also called Florence fennel, finocchio has long been a popular vegetable in Europe but has somehow fallen out of circulation from most American gardens.

1994, B. Rosie Lerner, Beverly S. Netzhammer, Possum in the Pawpaw Tree: A Seasonal Guide to Midwestern Gardening, page 43

On many, a cold freezing night, of temperatures hovering near zero, the finocchios tease and try to encourage Tedesco to join in their warm body orgies.

2008, Edward Anthony Gibbons, A Cultural Affair, page 6

Not to mention, he and Julie were finocchios; but at least Larry was a smart finocchio.

2009, Paul MacKenzie, Redemption Comes to Brooklyn, page 172

“Don’ stand next to any finocchios who might try’n grab your best friend,” Vin cracked. Richie roared as Tony made his way to the men’s room.

2010, Suzanne Corso, Brooklyn Story, page 182

Salvatore Maranzano: Rumour is you two are a pair of finocchi.Captain Jack Harkness: That’s not a rumour; that’s a boast.

2011 August 19, Jane Espenson, Torchwood: Miracle Day, episode 7: “Immortal Sins”, 23:51–23:57