bolsillo
“bolsillo” means “pocket” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:

📝 In Action
Siempre llevo mis llaves en el bolsillo derecho del pantalón.
A1I always carry my keys in the right pocket of my trousers.
Esta chaqueta tiene un bolsillo interior muy útil para la cartera.
A2This jacket has a very useful inside pocket for the wallet.
financial means
Also: funds
📝 In Action
Esa casa de lujo está fuera de mi bolsillo.
B1That luxury house is out of my price range (literally: out of my pocket).
Los libros de bolsillo son mucho más baratos que las ediciones de tapa dura.
B2Pocket books (paperbacks) are much cheaper than the hardback editions.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: bolsillo
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'bolsillo' in its figurative sense (related to money)?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word 'bolsillo' comes from the Spanish word 'bolsa' (meaning 'bag' or 'purse') combined with the diminutive ending '-illo'. This literally means 'little bag,' which perfectly describes a pocket sewn into clothing.
First recorded: Medieval Spanish
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'bolsillo' and 'bolsa'?
'Bolsillo' is specifically the small pouch sewn into an item of clothing (like trousers or a jacket). 'Bolsa' is a separate, external object, like a shopping bag, a purse, or a handbag.
How do I say 'deep pockets' (meaning rich) in Spanish?
You can say 'tener los bolsillos profundos' (to have deep pockets) or, more commonly, 'tener mucho dinero' (to have a lot of money) or 'ser adinerado' (to be wealthy).

