We actually don’t notice how weird the nicknames we use day by day are till we truly take a second to consider them.
Each language has them, and Spanish is without doubt one of the most entertaining of all of them.
Listed below are over 170 Spanish nicknames which might be cute, humorous and even insulting to make use of with everybody in your circle of buddies and family members.
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Widespread Spanish Nicknames
Typically used when putting an order at Taco Bell, this phrase, which interprets to one thing alongside the traces of “little fatty” can generally be used as a non-offensive time period of endearment between lovers.
You may hear it getting used on this Spanish-language industrial for Cheerios on FluentU:
You may watch the industrial on this studying platform with interactive subtitles, as you possibly can see above. These allow you to hover over any phrase for a definition or click on on it for extra info in addition to textual content and video examples.
FluentU has many genuine movies like this one, starting from film clips to information segments, supplying you with a lot of alternatives to listen to the language used naturally by native Spanish audio system.
Strive looking FluentU for any of the opposite nicknames on this checklist, and this system will present you flashcards of the phrases and any movies the place they seem. You may even create a “nicknames” flashcard deck and save your favorites to it. Then, you possibly can follow them with quizzes that’ll change up the questions primarily based in your progress.
Whereas this interprets on to “father” in English, it’s usually used when speaking to non-related elders in choose Spanish-speaking cultures.
Whereas it interprets actually to “small rooster,” it may be utilized in quite a lot of methods between Spanish cultures. It’s most alongside the traces of which means cute, lovable or engaging.
Additionally it is widespread to listen to mis pollitos (my chicks) utilized in many Latin American nations by some dad and mom when referring to their kids.
You’ve doubtless heard this one in exhibits, and it’s principally attributed to the Mexican tradition. It means one thing like “homeboy.”
That is one other time period usually heard within the Mexican tradition. It’s considered one of a number of phrases which may be used instead of “dude,” “man” or “man.”
This one varies relying on the place it’s used. It technically means somebody who’s a mestizo (an individual who’s of each European and Native American ancestries), however colloquially, it’s used to confer with an individual who has a sure type that features saggy pants, flannel shirts and a bandanna tied round their head.
Pronounced and generally spelt like “wey,” güey is used most equally to the way in which we are saying “dude,” besides generally it may be used derogatorily to name somebody foolish or used as an exclamatory phrase.
This title originated to name a Mexican with a flamboyant type and persona within the early twentieth century, who appeared and behaved equally to what we’d name mobsters or gangsters.
It could now be used to explain somebody who has the same type or for somebody who behaves in a approach that’s thought of socially inappropriate.
Primo/prima actually means “cousin”, however could also be used to name somebody who has maintained a detailed friendship.
Tío/tía interprets on to uncle/aunt in English however is usually utilized in Spain to refer to a different individual. This could possibly be somebody you already know, for instance: “¿Qué pasa, tío?” (what’s up, man?) or it may be used to confer with somebody you don’t know, e.g.,: “Parece un tío amable” (he looks as if a pleasant man).
Spanish Nicknames for Buddies and Household
Conejo means rabbit and conejito means little bunny. This can be utilized in a couple of methods, however probably the most smart is for somebody who’s fast-paced.
Identical to the favored banana model, chiquita interprets to “little woman.” Chiquito is identical, however for a small boy.
Nene (little boy) and nena (little woman) is utilized in Spanish to confer with younger kids.
You may additionally hear it as a time period of endearment between a pair, like “child” or “babe” in English.
This interprets on to “boss” in English however is usually used extra expansively in Spanish. In lots of nations in Latin America it’s common to listen to individuals say mis jefes (my bosses) when referring to their dad and mom.
That means cutie, this one is used on kids, adults, women and men equally. One thing that’s generally stated is “qué chula” which implies “how cute.”
Word that, because it usually occurs with phrases in Spanish, this phrase can have completely different meanings in several nations, so be careful in case you are, for instance, in Costa Rica, the place chulo/chula is usually used to confer with an individual who takes benefit of others for their very own profit.
This one refers to an individual who may be very light-skinned or light-haired.
Spelling and pronunciation observe: In Spanish, the 2 dots seen above the ü are known as diéresis , “dieresis” in English. They’re seldom used within the language. On this case, they point out that güero is pronounced like “wer-o.”
Hermano/hermana (brother/sister) are generally utilized in Spanish to confer with a detailed pal. That is much like how “bro” and “sis” are utilized in English.
This refers to somebody one who likes to gossip.
Used to say “outdated man/lady,” this one can be utilized jestingly or offensively relying on the context. It will also be used to confer with your dad and mom—however whether or not or not it’s offensive relies on the area, your tone of voice and how a lot of a humorousness your dad and mom have.
Somebody with this nickname is crafty and manipulative, very like the English “trickster.”
Mostly used to confer with somebody good-looking or engaging. It’s a title that’s usually additionally used sarcastically to imply the other.
It means fairly, however lindo/linda doesn’t have the identical embarrassing impact as “fairly boy” does in English.
This one is used to confer with somebody who may be very studious because it interprets to “little mind.”
This one means and is utilized in the identical approach as “boy” and “woman” in English. It’s ceaselessly and casually used. “Hola, chica. ¿Cómo estás?” (“Hey woman. How are you?”)
Spanish Nicknames for Lovers
Mi amor is without doubt one of the most typical phrases of endearment in Spanish. It means “my love” in English.
The Spanish are recognized for being romantic. An individual could name their love curiosity mi alma, which implies, “my soul.”
Chances are high you’ve heard this one earlier than. Whereas papi is a by-product of papá , this one is usually utilized in *ahem* very completely different contexts. This one interprets to one thing like a “macdaddy” in English.
This one is used fairly ceaselessly and is most much like how we are saying “expensive” or “darling” in English.
This merely means “stunning,” however it may be used as a reputation of types. Different phrases that imply mainly the identical factor are bonita and bella .
Derived from the verb amar (to like), amado means “cherished” in English.
To name somebody mi amado/mi amada is very like calling them “my beloved.”
These imply “prince” and “princess.”
Means “my little sky” or “my heaven.” Mi sol which implies “my solar” could also be utilized in the same method.
Spanish audio system actually know methods to make their lovers really feel particular. Mi vida means “my life.”
Sorry if these are making you are feeling lonely. Here’s a enjoyable truth: The phrase for “loneliness” in Spanish is soledad and is definitely a standard lady’s title in some Spanish-speaking nations.
In addition to vida and cielito , one other time period of endearment that you could be hear in Spanish is tesoro, which accurately interprets to “treasure” in English.
Mi tesoro (my treasure) is usually utilized in the identical context as “my darling” or “honey” in English.
Mi rey means “my king” and mi reina means “my queen.”
Media naranja interprets straight into English as “half an orange,” however is used as a time period of endearment in Spanish to imply “soulmate” or “different half.”
This cute one means “my little mermaid.”
In English, it looks as if it will be inconceivable to not relate this to the Disney film and sound no less than a little bit awkward to name a lover this, however in Spanish it may be used romantically.
Cute Spanish Nicknames for Women
Do you want an ideal nickname for a particular woman in your life? You should utilize these!
Cool Spanish Nicknames for Guys
As for the cool man pal, strive these nicknames on for measurement.
Humorous Spanish Nicknames
Most of the nicknames given to persons are foolish or simply meant to poke enjoyable at sure features of their persona or physique.
More often than not, these are meant in jest and aren’t meant to upset anybody. For example, my mother-in-law is alternatively referred to by the household as both “Maruja la Bruja” (Maria the Witch) and “Flaca” (Skinny). These nicknames are used extra usually than her actual title!
- Cabezón (Large head) — Used for somebody with a big head or cussed persona.
- Flaco (Skinny) — Used for somebody who’s skinny or lean.
- Gordo (Fats) — Used for somebody who’s obese or has a spherical physique form.
- Pelón (Bald) — Used for somebody who’s bald or has very quick hair.
- Orejón (Large ears) — Used for somebody with massive or distinguished ears.
- Narizón (Large nostril) — Used for somebody with a big or distinguished nostril.
- Cachetón (Chubby cheeks) — Used for somebody with spherical or plump cheeks.
- Dormilón (Sleepy) — Used for somebody who’s ceaselessly drained or likes to sleep.
- Tragoncito (Little glutton) — Used for somebody who likes to eat or overindulges in meals.
- Llorón (Crybaby) — Used for somebody who cries simply or is delicate.
- Chistoso (Humorous) — Used for somebody with humorousness or who likes to make others chuckle.
- Chiflado (Loopy) — Used for somebody who’s eccentric or has uncommon behaviors.
- Payaso (Clown) — Used for somebody who likes to behave foolish or entertain others.
- Vago (Lazy) — Used for somebody who lacks motivation or avoids work.
Spanish Nicknames for Coworkers
In an expert setting, you would possibly wish to chorus from the extra doubtlessly insulting or foolish nicknames. Nonetheless, there are nonetheless names you need to use for the individuals you’re employed with that received’t offend or upset. Examine them out beneath.
- Jefe (Boss) — Chances are you’ll bear in mind this nickname from an earlier part, however you may as well actually use the phrase as a nickname for a coworker in a management place.
- Compa — Quick for “compañero” or “compañera,” which implies “companion” or “colleague.”
- Mono /Mona (Monkey) — Used for somebody with a playful or mischievous persona.
- Fiera (Beast) — Used for a somebody who’s aggressive or fierce of their work.
- Maestro (Trainer) — Used for somebody who’s educated or skilled of their discipline.
- Crack — A colloquial time period meaning “ace” or “top-notch,” used for a coworker who is extremely expert or proficient of their work.
- Máquina (Machine) — Used for somebody extremely environment friendly and productive of their work.
Spanish Nicknames for Youngsters
Youngsters naturally invite cute nicknaming, and there are some lovable phrases of endearment used for kids within the Spanish language.
Spanish Nicknames for Pets
Does anybody truly name their pet by their actual title? My very own rabbit is firmly satisfied that his title is “Bunny” at this level. What cute title are you able to name your pet in Spanish? Learn on and choose your favourite!
Area-specific Nicknames
There are some nicknames that you simply’re extra more likely to hear in a single specific area. The lists beneath spotlight a few of the most typical nicknames from completely different Spanish-speaking areas of the world.
Mexican Nicknames
- Pancho (Quick for Francisco) — Used for somebody pleasant and outgoing.
- Chava (Quick for Salvador or Salvadorita) — Used for somebody cheerful and optimistic.
- Chapo (Shorty) — Used for somebody who’s quick in stature. It gained widespread notoriety because the nickname of the notorious drug lord, Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán.
- Cuate (Buddy or Pal) — Used as a time period of endearment for a detailed pal. It originated in Mexico and is usually utilized in Mexican Spanish.
Puerto Rican Nicknames
- Jibaro — Refers to somebody from the agricultural countryside of Puerto Rico, usually related to a specific type of music, dance and costume. The time period has its roots within the indigenous Taino individuals of Puerto Rico and remains to be generally used at this time.
- Boricua — Refers to somebody from Puerto Rico and is usually used as a time period of delight or affection for the island and its tradition. The time period has its roots within the indigenous Taino individuals of Puerto Rico and remains to be generally used at this time.
- Papi /Mami (Daddy/Mommy) — These nicknames imply “daddy” or “mommy” in Spanish and are sometimes used as phrases of endearment for a detailed pal or romantic companion. They’re additionally generally utilized in Puerto Rican Spanish.
Nicknames from Different Spanish-speaking International locations
- Che — Utilized in Argentina as a time period of familiarity or endearment. It gained widespread recognition via the well-known Argentine revolutionary, Ernesto “Che” Guevara.
- Chino /Chinita — Utilized in numerous Spanish-speaking nations together with Peru, Colombia and Spain. They confer with somebody with Asian options and are sometimes used as phrases of endearment.
- Tico /Tica — Utilized in Costa Rica and confer with somebody from that nation.
- Chapín /Chapina — Utilized in Guatemala and confer with somebody from that nation.
- Guacho — Utilized in Chile and confer with somebody who’s single or single.
- Paisa —Utilized in Colombia and refers to somebody from the Paisa area, which encompasses a number of departments within the central Andean area of the nation.
- Chamo — Utilized in Venezuela and confer with somebody who’s younger or youthful amongst family and friends members.
- Chivato — Utilized in Cuba and confer with somebody who’s a snitch or tattletale. They’re usually utilized in a unfavorable sense to explain somebody who’s untrustworthy.
Nicknames for Widespread Names
Very similar to Alexander will develop into Alex in English, some names get shortened nicknames in Spanish. Listed below are a few of the most typical name-based nicknames.
- Pepe — Quick for José.
- Juanito — Quick for Juan.
- Paco — Quick for Francisco.
- Toño — Quick for Antonio.
- Lolo — Quick for Carlos.
- Tito — Quick for names ending in -to, similar to Alberto or Benito.
- Rafa — Quick for Rafael.
- Mari — Quick for María.
- Chema — Quick for José María.
- Kiko — Quick for Francisco.
- Pili — Quick for Pilar.
- Conchi — Quick for Concepción.
- Javi — Quick for Javier.
- Isa — Quick for Isabel or Isabella.
- Nando — Quick for Fernando or Hernando.
- Pato — Quick for Patricio or Patricia, and which means “duck.”
The way to Be taught Extra Spanish Nicknames
The phrases above are utilized in genuine speech—meaning many are thought of “slang” or “colloquialisms” and you’ll not discover them in textbooks.
That’s the reason I like to recommend utilizing genuine sources to study these nicknames—and choose up extra! Listed below are some sources to get you began:
- italki: Native Spanish academics on italki can educate you about Spanish nicknames and tradition straight. You’ll find one-on-one tutors on this web site, or get a language companion and discover out from them what their favourite nicknames to make use of are.
- FluentU: As I discussed earlier on this put up, the FluentU web site and iOS / Android app has genuine Spanish movies with interactive subtitles. The definitions you get from the are contextual, so that you’ll know precisely how a phrase is getting used—like when a phrase is getting used a slang time period or actually.
- The way to Spanish Classes & Podcasts: This YouTube channel goes over nicknames and extra in this episode. The video goes in-depth concerning the background behind names in Spanish and discuss particularly about Mexican tradition surrounding names and nicknames.
There you’ve got it. Now you’re all set to appeal, praise and insult these round you in Spanish.
¡Buena suerte, amigos! (Good luck, my buddies!)
Obtain:
This weblog put up is offered as a handy and transportable PDF that you simply
can take wherever.
Click on right here to get a duplicate. (Obtain)
