the word 'zucchini' is a direct borrowing from italian, where it is the plural diminutive form of 'zucca', meaning 'gourd' or 'pumpkin'. italian 'zucca' itself derives from late latin 'cucutia', a variant of classical latin 'cucurbita', which also meant 'gourd'. the journey into english is relatively recent, reflecting the vegetable's introduction and popularization in american and british cuisine from italian culinary traditions. the modern english meaning retains the original italian sense, specifically referring to the small, immature marrow.

this is a simplex loanword. its form is borrowed directly from italian as a complete unit.