Why do Americans say zucchini?

Why Americans Say "Zucchini" and Brits Say "Courgette"

Have you ever wondered why Americans call it zucchini while people in the UK say courgette? The answer lies in culinary history—and a bit of cultural influence.

Zucchini, as it turns out, is a relatively modern vegetable. It was developed in Italy in the 19th century, and the name comes straight from Italian—“zucchino” meaning “little squash.” Italian immigrants brought both the word and the vegetable to the United States, which is why zucchini became the go-to term in American English.

Across the Atlantic, however, the story took a slightly different turn. During the 18th and 19th centuries, French cuisine had a strong influence on British cooking, especially among the upper classes and professional chefs. When the vegetable made its way to the UK, it was introduced through French culinary channels, where it’s known as “courgette.” That’s why Brits still use the French-derived word today.

Interestingly, both terms refer to the exact same thing: a small, green, tender summer squash. The differences in naming aren’t about taste or variety—they’re about history, migration, and who was doing the cooking at the time.

So next time you're browsing a recipe—especially one involving pasta, ratatouille, or grilled veggies—and you see either "zucchini" or "courgette," remember: language is just another ingredient shaped by culture. Whether you slice it thin for a salad or roast it with herbs, it's all the same delicious vegetable, just with a passport full of influences.