auténtico
“auténtico” means “authentic” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
authentic, real
Also: genuine, true
📝 In Action
Este reloj es auténtico; lo compré en Suiza.
A2This watch is authentic; I bought it in Switzerland.
La comida tailandesa de este restaurante sabe muy auténtica.
B1The Thai food at this restaurant tastes very authentic.
Necesitas ser más auténtico contigo mismo para ser feliz.
B2You need to be more true to yourself to be happy.
certified, reliable
Also: verified
📝 In Action
El notario firmó el acta para hacerla auténtica.
B2The notary signed the record to make it certified/official.
Presentaron una declaración auténtica ante el juez.
C1They presented a verified statement before the judge.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: auténtico
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses the feminine plural form of 'auténtico'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Latin word *authenticus*, which itself was borrowed from the ancient Greek word *authentikós*. The original Greek meaning was 'principal' or 'original,' referring to something that is its own master and not copied.
First recorded: 15th century (in Spanish)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'auténtico' and 'verdadero'?
'Auténtico' means 'genuine' or 'real' in the sense of origin or sincerity (e.g., an authentic painting, a real smile). 'Verdadero' means 'true' or 'correct' in the sense of facts or statements (e.g., a true story, a correct answer). Sometimes they overlap, but 'auténtico' often focuses on the quality of being original.