americano
“americano” means “American” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
American
Also: of the Americas
📝 In Action
El continente americano es el segundo más grande del mundo.
A2The American continent is the second largest in the world.
Los países americanos tienen una gran diversidad cultural.
B1The American countries have great cultural diversity.
American
Also: US
📝 In Action
Mi amigo tiene doble nacionalidad: es mexicano y americano.
B1My friend has dual nationality: he is Mexican and American (from the U.S.).
Compramos un coche americano.
B2We bought an American car (a U.S. manufactured car).
Americano
Also: long black
📝 In Action
¿Quieres un americano o un espresso?
A1Do you want an Americano or an espresso?
Pide un americano con leche desnatada.
A2Order an Americano with skim milk.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: americano
Question 1 of 1
Which of these sentences uses 'americano' in its broadest, continental meaning?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes directly from the name of the continent, América, which itself was named after the Italian explorer Amerigo Vespucci in the early 16th century.
First recorded: 16th century (in reference to the inhabitants of the New World)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is it rude to call someone from the U.S. 'americano'?
Generally, no, but it can be confusing or sometimes considered imprecise by people from other countries in the Americas (like Mexico, Chile, or Canada) who also identify as 'americanos' by continent. Using 'estadounidense' is the safest and clearest option.
How do I make 'americano' feminine or plural?
To make it feminine, change the -o to -a (americana). To make it plural, add -s (americanos, americanas). For example: 'las costumbres americanas' (the American customs).